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From: jimb@tekcbi.UUCP (Jim Boland)
Newsgroups: net.video
Subject: Re: VCR Head Cleaning (Year-old Summary)
Message-ID: <404@tekcbi.UUCP>
Date: Fri, 15-Nov-85 15:30:02 EST
Article-I.D.: tekcbi.404
Posted: Fri Nov 15 15:30:02 1985
Date-Received: Mon, 18-Nov-85 05:20:36 EST
References: <836@houxa.UUCP> <447@mot.UUCP>
Organization: Tektronix, Beaverton OR
Lines: 24

> > What is the best method for cleaning the heads, capstans, etc. of my VHS
> > VCR? I've seen several different products, but want to avoid the ones
> > which irreparably damage the heads. 
> >	Any suggestions? 		Steve
> 
> From: trwspp!spp2!stassen
> 	Professional cleaning is probably the way to go, because you shouldn't
> have to do it that often.  _

> From: asgb!sjk (Scott J. Kamin)
> Don't clean your heads unless you can detect a deterioration in the picture,
> i.e. streaks, graininess, etc.  All cleaning is abrasive and over cleaning
> will permanently damage the heads.  When you do need to clean, use a good
> quality ( i.e. brand name) cleaner.  

I clean the heads of my vcr's when I know they need it.  You can tell
because the picture is not behaving normally, or I notice dropouts where
I know there aren't any.  I do not use head cleaner tapes  and other
such products.  Working in the videotape dept. of a local TV station
gives me access to the commercial stuff.  I open the top of my deck,
gain access to the heads and other internals and use the head cleaning 
cloths and fluids which we use at the station.  I am also able at this time 
to clean out dust, check for wear and tear on belts, pulleys,guides, etc.
Usually, I only need to do this once a year on  a heavily used hi-fi deck.