Einleitung
If you have a Sony VO or VP series U-Matic player that goes into standby when you try to stop or eject a tape, the capstan locking mechanism may be stuck. This guide will show you how to release it and prevent it from getting stuck again.
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First, remove the top cover. It is held on by four screws, one in each corner.
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After doing this, you should see something like this photo. What we're interested in is the area inside the red circle.
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With the deck powered off, push the end of the lock to the right. It may take a bit of force, but don't use an unreasonable amount.
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Power the deck back on, and the tape should unthread. You can now eject your tape normally.
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To keep the capstan lock from getting stuck, you just need to oil it.
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Start by removing the brace by removing this screw.
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Next, remove the circled end of this spring and the E-clip. A pair of curved tweezers can be handy for the spring.
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Slide the capstan lock partway up its shaft, and try to get some oil inside the bushing at the bottom of the capstan lock.
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I used common bike chain oil on my machine and it seems to work. I do not know for sure how it will hold up over time though, so if you have better oil to use, go for it.
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That's it! Assuming all other functions work, you now have a functional U-Matic player.
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To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.
