[Sanbeta]

One other thing regarding FF and REW times. The always laced beta models will be slower.
The Sanyo VTC 53/400 quotes 'within 6 mins' and will be slower than the unlacing Sanyo's (usually around 5 min to 5m 30s from the ones I've worked on). This also goes for the Sony models who always quote their fast wind times with a L500 (2 h 10min) length tape as it's quicker.

Your motor sounds like it's OK in that area which, like you say, is good.

.....Kevin