[mole42uk]

I've removed the spooling mechanism from the tape transport. Examining it reveals that the clutches seem alright, they both feel a simlar resistance to slip. The mechanism seems to operate properly, no sticky shafts or broken bits.

I attach some photos, the second photo shows what I suspect is the problem in that the slow-speed gear doesn't align properly. It seems possible that this, which is the take-up drive, could sometimes not mesh at all which leads to the tape tangles I've witnessed.

In the annotated photo, I show where these gears are placed, and pose a question - how best to remove those little plastic circlips? I know to work in a polythene bag in case of a fly-off, but is there an approved method of releasing them?