Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Tape Player and Cassette Care

The head and the capstan are the two parts of the tape player that should be cleaned. This service should be performed every 100 hours of cassette operation.
In order to clean the head and the capstan, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
A cassette cleaning kit may also be used to clean the head and the capstan. Follow the cleaning kit instructions to clean the tape player.
Do not touch the tape head with magnetized tools. If the head becomes magnetized, it will degrade cassettes played in the player. No service is performed on the cassettes. The cassette manufacturer handles warranties of the cassettes. Store cassettes away from extreme heat and direct sunlight.