Tacoma Extra Cab 4WD L4-2693cc 2.7L DOHC MFI (1997)
Tape Player: All Technical Service Bulletins
Audio - Cleaning Cassette Heads And Capstans
AUDIO
AU001-97
REVISED
May 16, 1997
Title:
CLEANING CASSETTE TAPE HEADS AND CAPSTANS
Models:
All Models
Introduction
The cassette tape head and capstan should be cleaned regularly to prevent poor sound quality and/or cassettes from jamming.
Conditions
The following conditions can easily be avoided by regularly cleaning the head with a tape cleaner and only using good quality cassettes.
Poor Sound Quality due to Dirty Head
Since the tape head contacts the cassette tape, the tape head accumulates metal oxides Quality due to and dirt particles from the tape. In time, a layer of
dirt forms on the tape head resulting in poor transfer of information between the tape and the tape head. This typically causes a reduction of the higher
frequencies or a reduction of the brightness in sound quality.
Tape Speed
Tape speed is controlled by the tape capstan and pinch rollers. If the capstan and pinch rollers accumulate dirt, the tape may slip causing the music to
play too fast or too slow.
Jamming
Dirt can make the capstans sticky, causing the tape to become entangled in the cassette mechanism. This can cause the cassette to become jammed in the
player.
Cassette Tape Head Cleaners
To reduce the occurrence of these conditions, the following approved cassette cleaners are available through the non-parts system (Material Distribution
Center).
Cassette Tape Care Procedure
The following precautions should be taken to keep cassettes in good condition:
1.
Remove the cassette from the player when the cassette is not in use.
2.
Store the cassette in its case.
3.
Store the cassette in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and magnetic components such as speakers.
4.
Avoid touching the tape itself. This could~result in poor sound quality or sound drop out.
