[DMcMahon]

OK that is the rubber Pinch Wheel/Roller, called Pressure Roller in the Philips service manual (item 70) when Play is selected it pushes the tape up against the rotating capstan shaft.

On some machines the amount of travel and/or the pressure can be adjusted so that the roller makes proper contact with the capstan shaft.

Looking at the Philips drawing I cannot easily see if there is any adjustment on this machine.

Have a close look at the mechanism to see how the roller mounting bracket is moved forward when Play is selected to determine if there any adjustment or any way to put more tension on the associated spring.

Also wondering if there might be an issue with the Take Up spool friction clutch and also if the take up spool brake shoes are being released properly.

Maybe someone familiar with this model or similar will be able to comment more.

David