New owner of big ben

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jpetrol251

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Jan 6, 2017
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Thankful i found this site for help. I had a big ben new in 1982 when i was a kid. It sure does bring back memories. Well it does have some issues and i am trying to get it back to 100%. I live in south florida and its not easy finding someone to fix everything. one guy wanted 300 and i dont think he knew what he was doing. So tape deck doesnt work and its stuck on "always on". I read on here it could be a cassette issue. I am missing the power cord. Does anyone know where i can get a replacement? i am using the pin plug below. stereo light doesnt work. Also i am missing 1 microphone and both mic holders. If anyone knows where i can get those. I am not to knowlegable or handy fixing these. i am greatful for your help if you can. Thank you
 

Fatdog

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May 3, 2009
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The tape deck "always on" usually indicates a broken belt. Is the play head stuck in the up position? If so, you will need to open the boombox and manually spin the cassette flywheel to disengage the tape head.

Thrift stores like Goodwill are your best bet for finding a power cord unless you want to use ebay.
 

baddboybill

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Jul 14, 2009
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Welcome!!! Big Bens also have issue with a spring that gets detached from a pulley due to the plastic holder where spring is attached breaking. It is repairable with jb weld. Also like Fatdog stated belts need replacing and pinch roller and tire may also. $300 for restoration is pretty steep without even restoring unit. I'm close to Tampa if you need help in restoration on unit ;-)
 

BoomboxLover48

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Dec 3, 2010
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baddboybill said:
Welcome!!! Big Bens also have issue with a spring that gets detached from a pulley due to the plastic holder where spring is attached breaking. It is repairable with jb weld. Also like Fatdog stated belts need replacing and pinch roller and tire may also. $300 for restoration is pretty steep without even restoring unit. I'm close to Tampa if you need help in restoration on unit ;-)
jpetrol251 you are lucky to have Bill near! You are in safe hands! :yes: :yes:
 

jpetrol251

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Jan 6, 2017
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Wow, thank you guys. What kind of power cord on ebay will work? ill start with that then figure out tape head. ty


P.s Anyone know where i can get the mic and oem holders?

I just ordered all the belts from ebay and bought and downloaded the service manual.
 

docs

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Jun 26, 2010
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I think there is a thread also with details about fixing the pulley spring burried in the deck.
Though it must be noted, the record bar causes the deck to remain always on. Give it a thorough clean with deoxit before trying anything else.
 

baddboybill

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Cords from newer radios and other electronics sometimes work as well. ;-).

docs said:
I think there is a thread also with details about fixing the pulley spring burried in the deck.
Though it must be noted, the record bar causes the deck to remain always on. Give it a thorough clean with deoxit before trying anything else.
I had old thread as well about this ;-)
 

jpetrol251

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Jan 6, 2017
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So Bill you can fix my 960? How would this work? Even though you are close (Tampa) is might as be Cali. Trusting shipping you my pride and joy?.
 
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