Videostar 3v29 C clips!

[amtrakuk]

I've changed the belts on two 3v29s. What is the best way of changing the loading belt? Those c clips do like to fly or fall into the deck!

I thought I mastered the it by removing a clip and sliding the rod back and skewing the worm gear therefore letting the belt pass. All great until putting back the tiny washer and c clip I think I heard it fall inside!

Why they couldn't design it for the belt and pulleys to be on the outside of that metal frame I will never know.

[dj_fivos_sak]

I usually apply some sticky tape on the clip/washer and then pry it off with a flat-head screwdriver. By using sticky tape, the e/c-clip won't fly off.

Fivos

[Nickthedentist]

See the article by Joe Cieszynski here: https://www.vintage-radio.net/forum/...2&d=1401009755

[jayceebee]

They are a little awkward to do but don't worry if you do upset the timing as you're very unlikely to do any damage, the mechanicals on this machine are as tough as old boots.

The best way to tackle it is to find the unload leaf switch on the underside of the deck, with the tape ejected the contacts will be closed. With the power removed wind the loading motor pulley until the switch just fully opens and only then remove the screws to extract the motor assembly from the machine, the c clip, shaft and belt pulley can now be removed with ease and the belt replaced.

On refitting the motor to the deck don't force it back into position, if it doesn't seat cleanly remove it and give the pulley a slight turn, when you get it right it will just drop into place and the screws can the be refitted. Next power on the machine, the loading motor should rotate briefly until the unload switch closes again then stop, job done.

John.

[Welsh Anorak]

My method was similar though I put an old capstan belt around the reel tables and the two guides in Stop mode so they can't move. Then you can remove the motor block and take care things don't get lost.
However I don't think I've ever seen an ex-rental machine with the shims present - and occasionally one circlip replaced by a turn of thin wire!

[amtrakuk]

I've managed to get the belt changed but I think I've deformed the c-clip as it wont stay on. I've ordered some more 2.3mm c-clips off the internet.

I see some of your comments suggest removing the assembly form the deck and I assume working on a white sheet. Am I right in thinking that involve de-soldering and re soldering the blue and red cables or am I missing a trick?

[amtrakuk]

Thanks Nick. I've just read the service manual link you left. many thanks

[Welsh Anorak]

Re post # 6 - ideally it does, but in a busy workshop there was enough room with the wires extended to carefully ease the clip off without it flying into next week. And if it did we'd never admit it - just quietly get another one....
Glyn