Tape Player and Cassette Care
TAPE HEAD AND CAPSTAN CLEANINGCleaning Cassette Player:
Two parts should be cleaned on the tape player, the head and the capstan. Since they can be reached through the tape door, leave the tape player in the vehicle. This service should be performed every 50 hours of cassette operation.
To clean the head and capstan, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
A cassette cleaning kit may also be used to clean the head and capstan. Follow instructions on the kit to clean the tape player.
Do not contact the tape head with magnetized tools. If the head becomes magnetized, it will degrade every cassette played in the player.
The tape deck has an added function that helps prevent damage if the cassette tape would break or become jammed. This tape deck may eject the scrubbing-type cleaning cartridge after about 5 seconds. Therefore, it may be necessary to insert the scrubbing-type cleaner at least three times to thoroughly clean the deck.
A non-scrubbing, wet type tape cleaner could be used in replace of the scrubbing-type. This type uses a fabric belt in place of the tape and will not eject after five seconds. However, it may not provide as thorough a cleaning as the scrubbing-type cleaner.
No service is performed on the cassettes. The cassette manufacturer handles warranties of cassettes. The test cassette used by the dealer should be stored in its container to keep the tape clean. Store cassette away from extreme heat and direct sunlight.