tascam 644 tapes wont play (strange)

> > > tascam 644 tapes wont play (strange)

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Member Since: Sep 14, 2009

Could this be a drive belt problem? the tape deck works as long as there is not a tape in it. if the tape is in and I press play the capstan wont move. No tape works fine. I just bought this on Craigslist so I'm not sure if it ever worked. Looks like someone has tinkered with it in the past. Also the belt doesn't move at all even when the capstan is moving. It is a one belt system but doesn't move with any of the functions. I have no idea what to do. HELP!!

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Member
Since: Sep 14, 2009

Sep 14, 2009 10:53 am

Also. ff and rewind work when tape is in. only play stops it??????

Czar of Midi
Administrator
Since: Apr 04, 2002

Sep 14, 2009 01:45 pm

FF and RW are direct drive function's. The play and record function are belt driven. It does indeed sound like the unit either needs a new belt or service of some kind.

If you are handy the belt can be done at home. If you are not I do highly suggest a good tech take care of it.

Also, I dearly hope you didn't pay too much for that unit. It is 20 years old now and parts are going to be difficult to find if it is something other then a belt. And even that might be hard to find.

Member
Since: Sep 14, 2009

Sep 14, 2009 03:00 pm

I've taken it apart, taken the belt off, put it back on and can see that the belt isn't running when play is pressed but the capstan is moving. If I cant find a belt would a rubber band work? I only paid $30 for it. I used to have a 688 that burnt up. I love the recordings you out of the old analog machines. great for old punk rock!

Czar of Midi
Administrator
Since: Apr 04, 2002

Sep 14, 2009 04:10 pm

I don't remember how the pinch roller's were set up on that unit. But double check them as well to make sure they are not jammed.

On the rubber band idea. I know it has been done in a pinch. It would have to be pretty stout to work but would if it were very close to the same size.

> > > tascam 644 tapes wont play (strange)

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