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From: alo@kampi.hut.fi (Antti Louko)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.dec
Subject: Re: TS-11 Preservation
Keywords: o-ring magtape TS11 TS-11
Message-ID: <1990Nov9.074414.21959@santra.uucp>
Date: 9 Nov 90 07:44:14 GMT
References: <44@omen.UUCP>
Sender: news@santra.uucp (Cnews - USENET news system)
Reply-To: alo@kampi.hut.fi (Antti Louko)
Organization: Helsinki University of Technology
Lines: 24

In article <44@omen.UUCP> caf@omen.UUCP (Chuck Forsberg WA7KGX) writes:
>My TS-11 tape drive uses a rubber O ring to secure the tape
>supply reel.  This ring stretches over time, making it hard to
>install and remove reels of tape.

>I don't know how hard it is to find a fresh O ring, but I
>think I have devised an alternative.  Simply remove the O ring
>from the reel assembly when the drive is not in use.  This
>helps the O ring regain its youthful dimensions.

Years ago, our TS-11 had the same problem. I suggested our DEC
serviceperson to replace the O-ring. He said the ring is OK, it just
needs some lubrication with silicone oil (one which doesn't harm any
plastic or rubber parts). He sprayed some oil into the ring, wiped the
extra away oil with a cloth and after this magic the mechanism worked
like charm.

I wouldn't have dreamed to put any OIL into a place which seems to
need friction.

DON'T use petroleum based oil because it can ruin the O-RING
permanently. Use only oil made for rubber and plastics.

	Antti