Otari 5050 button help -- solved !

[Seditionary]

Hi, we have an Otari 5050 machine -- 1/2" tape, 4 track… old LA Universal Studios machine.  The machine runs perfectly, but when trying to change tape speeds… it just stops functioning.  Do you guys know what this could be?  Where I should look to fix the problem, etc?  I think it might have happened from changing tape speeds too frequently… pushing the button in and out… Thanks

 

[radardoug]

your problem is likely to be dirty contacts on the button. This is a common problem with older 5050's.
Put some sprayon contact cleaner in the button, and then operate the button 20 times.

 

[sodderboy]

To be more specific, try a minimal schpritz of ProGold in there and exercise as suggested.

Also, surround the switchbank with paper towels like a surgeon.  You want to prevent ANY spray from going on rubber parts back there.
Mike

 

[Seditionary]

thanks guys! !

you were right on radardoug!  the problem was a dirty button.  i used qd electronic cleaner.  i didn't see any rubber components inside, so i skipped the paper towel and just sprayed away.

it works again!  amazing.  thanks again!  back to messing with tape speeds!  HA HA 

now if i only could get my vp26 to start working i'd really be in business   soon, soon.

cheers, y'all