GF-525. No Tape Drive.

I've taken my GF525 apart and replaced the drive belts, but unforunately that wasn't the problem. On closer inspection, it appears that the tyres on the take up idler have turned to mush. They seem to have deteriorated to a sticky, tar like substance. I've attached a couple of pics and I just need confirmation that I'm on the right track. I guess the chances of finding new idlers is less than zero, but a couple of decent secondhand ones would do. Part number is NIDR-0066AFZZ. Any suggestions on cleaning the old ones/replacing tyres/anything would be welcome.

Yuck!

If you cannot find a direct replacement for the tire, you can sometimes use plumbing O-rings that can be found at hardware stores. The trick is finding an O-ring that will fit into the groove and stand high enough to be similar to the original tire.

I used this trick on my Sanyo M9935 years ago, and it's still working.

I've managed to do a decent clean up using ipa and the tires look in surprisingly good condition. However, I note that there is no contact between the idler and the capstan. I think it's all going to have to come out again. Still, I'm learning an awful lot about this machine...

Can anyone confirm if there should be contact between the capstan and the idler when in play mode? I've indicated the point in the attached photo.

Not 100% sure about the gf525 but many sharp models have a rubber tube over capstan shaft that deteriorates over the years. We have used RC model rubber fuel line to replace the tube drive. I can’t remember the size but I know there are plenty of topics in tech talk about it. I believe it’s 5mm od and 2mm id tube. Must clean everything very good. Plus cut tube so there is no rubbing on bearings and sand outside of tube. Good luck

Thanks badboy, that makes sense. I guess I could try a short length of heatshrink tube. I have an exploded view of the machine but it's not that clear so would be difficult to ascertain if there is a tube on there - but that could account for the black gloop on the shaft. The only problem would be cleaning the shaft after pushing it through the bearing. It inevitably picks up some grease from inside the bore, and it'll be difficult to get in there and do a thorough clean. However, I've come this far...

junglemonkey57 said:

Can anyone confirm if there should be contact between the capstan and the idler when in play mode? I've indicated the point in the attached photo.

Click to expand...

Idler tire will not have any traction on the capstan without the rubber tube/RC fuel line.. slipped on it like Bill mentioned.

Thank you. Seems obvious now...

It takes some time and patience but needs to be fully cleaned using rubbing alcohol is usually best!!

Just found this
https://www.ebay.ie/itm/rubber-flywheel-take-up-idler-tyre-for-SHARP-GF-series-boombox-cassette-deck-/143300777432?hash=item215d6455d8

That seller is a member here.

ledmeter

Ordered a couple from him. Just for information, I've found the part on the parts diagram, and the original number is NPLYR0050AFZZ Pulley, Rubber, Take-up.

Success! Thanks for all the help and suggestions. Tried to upload a video clip but it wouldn't let me... :-(

👍