Instructions for use of
REVOX Tape Head Cleaning Kit

The Revox Tape Head Kit enables the user of a Revox Tape Recorder to maintain the Tape Heads and all parts of the tape path in a clean condition. Regular cleaning will ensure the highest quality of recording and reproduction and because dust and oxide from the tape can cause head wear, such cleaning will reduce maintenance and replacement.

If the Erase Head is not scrupulously clean, unwanted signals off a previously used tape will be heard when a newly recorded tape is reproduced. If the record and/or playback head is not clean, the range of frequency response of recorded and reproduced tapes will be reduced.

The Kit should be used at least every 30 hours of playing or recording time.

How to use the Kit

Whilst the Heads etc. can be cleaned with the recorder in a vertical position, it is easier to undertake this simple task with the recorder in a horizontal position. The recorder should be disconnected from the electric power line.

1) Remove the Head Cover by gripping it at each end and pulling it away from the deck.

2) Note: In no circumstances should any metal object be applied to any of the Heads or parts revealed by the removal of the Head Cover. Do not touch any of the wires connected to the Heads.

3) Apply some Revox Cleaner to the felt tip of a Blue Tape Head Applicator Tool and brush briskly across each of the Tape Heads. If the felt tip is soiled it should be pressed against the Hi-Fuster cloth to remove the oxide or dirt. A further application of Cleaner should be made.

4) When all the dirt has been removed a White Tape Head Polisher Tool should be used to dry the residue of the Revox Cleaner off the Tape Heads.

5) Clean in the same way the surfaces across which the tape passes of Guide Post, Tape Guide and Guide Rollers.

6) Capstan and Pressure Roller can be cleaned, either by using the Applicator and Polisher Tools, as described in 3 and 4 above, or by applying the Revox Cleaner to a section of the Hi-Fuster cloth and polishing with another section of the cloth. Whichever method is used it will be necessary to rotate the Capstan and the Pressure Roller by applying the fingers to the top of these components. It is important NOT to apply the fingers direct to the surface of the Pressure Roller. Prevent the liquid from entering the Capstan Bearing.

7) If the cleaning operation has unfortunately not been undertaken for some time, oxide or other dirt may have accumulated on the metal parts below the Heads and Capstan. This can be removed by moistening one end of a cotton wool stick and applying it to these parts to pick up the oxide etc. Use this method for collecting any pieces of tape which may have fallen on the metal parts after a tape editing session.

8) Replace the Head Cover by positioning the pins above the circular recesses and push down gently.

Notes
a) The Revox Cleaner is a non-flammable anti-static liquid specially formulated for cleaning Tape Heads, metal parts and plastic surfaces. It may, with advantage, be used for cleaning all exterior plastic surfaces of your Revox recorder. Apply on a cloth (preferably a Hi-Fuster as it is soft, fluff-free and absorbent) and polish afterwards with a dry section of the cloth.

b) If the parts of the tape path are very seriously soiled then methylated spirit or alcohol may be used instead of the Revox Cleaner but These liquids should not be applied to any other surface of the recorder. Avoid the spilling of these solvents into the Capstan Bearing as this will adversely affect the permanent lubrication and shorten the bearing life.


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