Ensure that a 1/4” audio reel is in place on right side of deck to support take up reel
Turn on deck
Ensure tension pin is blocked
Choose a take up reel which corresponds in size with the reel you wish to clean
Thread source tape anti clockwise around take up reel’s hub directly across top of deck - DO NOT thread through tape path
Fold a DRY cotton swatch over exposed tape between reels and pinch lightly
Put control in FORWARD position
Allow tape to run through pinched fingers, applying even pressure
Pause occasionally and check level of dirt being removed
Replace dirty cloth with fresh cloth as often as necessary while cleaning
Once tape has finished forwarding, thread back on to source reel and rewind entirely
Repeat as necessary
U-Matic
Open lid of cleaning deck, and hang lid from nail above deck using rubber bands attached to lid
Clean entire tape path with cotton swatches and alcohol
Turn on power switch bottom right underneath deck (and step back or you will get hit in the face!)
Once alcohol has evaporated, put tape in deck
Press CLEAN button followed by AUTO - tape will now fast forward and then rewind while cleaning
Once tape has self ejected following cleaning, use dentist’s mirror to check how much dirt has been removed by cleaning rolls
If cleaning rolls has removed a lot of dirt, repeat cleaning procedure
If cleaning roll is collecting thick, sticky detritus, you should bake tape
If machine is stopping mid wind and showing the BIND warning, you will likely have to bake tape (though in some cases rehousing is necessary rather than baking)
If baking is necessary, try to pack tape back to start if possible before baking
Clean tape path between each cleaning pass
Once tape is satisfactorily clean, turn off machine, clean tape path again, close lid of cleaning deck.
VHS
Open lid of cleaning deck.
Clean entire tape path with cotton swatches and alcohol.
Turn on deck (power switch bottom left underneath deck).
Once alcohol has evaporated, put tape in deck.
Press START.
Once tape has self ejected following cleaning, use dentist’s mirror to check how much dirt has been removed by cleaning rolls
If cleaning rolls has removed a lot of dirt, repeat cleaning procedure
Clean tape path between each cleaning pass
Once tape is satisfactorily clean, turn off machine, clean tape path again, close lid of cleaning deck.