by
Alex
ramjam@globalserve.net
1) To confirm that a worn idler tire is causing a malfunction, without disassembly, I use a product called "Rubber Renue" [M.G.Chemicals Ltd. 13-80 Hale Road, Brampton, ON L6W 3M1 Canada 416 454-4178]. First I clean the tire with Isopropyl Alcohol (99%) then using the other end of the Q-tip I apply Rubber Renue. You don't need much, I have had the same 100ml (3.4oz) bottle for over 6 years. What the product does is rejuvenates and conditions the rubber (read: makes *sticky*) as to allow normal or near normal operation. I don't recommend this as a permanent fix, though it can be, it is a great diagnostic tool and the whole procedure takes about five minutes. 2) To fix squeaky pulley shafts and collars I use a pipe cleaner (most smoke shops sell them) to clean the collars, I then use transmission fluid (the same stuff you put in your car) as a lubricant on the shaft. It's lightweight, it doesn't gum up, it's cheap and can be bought just about anywhere. Just remember not to use too much as it spreads easily, which can be disastrous in a VCR.
