1/2-Inch Reel-to-Reel Kennedy Tape Drive Cleaning Process

Components of the Kennedy Tape Drive can be cleaned by placing the drive in the service position. This is done by extending the unit fully on the mounting slides and opening the dust cover. To open the dust cover, turn the two holding screws one quarter turn counterclockwise. To secure the dust cover in the open position, position the hole in the autolocking support bar onto the pin located on the side of the chassis. To expose the tape path components, lift the tape path dust cover next to the vacuum hub assembly.

Note: If the tape drive is located in a rack, be sure to extend the anti-tip legs at the base of the rack. Follow the cleaning method for each part listed:

Erase/write/read head

Use a clean lint-free cloth or cotton swab dampened with 90% isopropyl alcohol or Freon-TF. Wipe the head with firm but gentle vertical strokes. Pay particular attention to the recessed areas of the head.

Note: Using non-recommended cleaning fluids or excessive amounts of the recommended cleaning fluid can damage the tape drive. Cleaning fluids allowed to run into the bearings break down the lubricant.

Tape path cleaning

Clean tape guides, rollers (except capstan roller), and the tape cleaners with a cotton swab dampened with 90% isopropyl alcohol. Clean the capstan roller with a cotton swab dampened with water or, if it is excessively dirty, dampen it with mild, soapy water. Dry thoroughly with a clean lint-free cloth.

Caution: Never clean any plastic or rubber component (for example, the tape guide) in the tape path with 90% or higher isopropyl alcohol. Doing so degrades the composition of the component.

Reel locking fingers

With the tape reel on the supply hub removed, clean the rubber pads on the fingers with a clean cotton swab or cloth dampened with water or, if it is excessively dirty, with mild, soapy water.

Caution: Do not lubricate the bearings.