Akai-Roberts Reel to Reel replacement speed change / changing capstan bushing / sleeve (5 DIFFERENT VERSION ON THIS PAGE) to allow 7.5ips, 15ips and 30ips* for Akai or Roberts-Rheem 44S / Universal, 333X, 555X, 888X, 720A, 997, 1630, 1680, 1725 8L III 770X, 771X, 778X, SS 17258L, 1740X, GX-4000D, 4000D, 4000DB DB, GX-4400 'Convert-A-Deck' / GX-4400D, M7, M8, M9, X-1800SD, X-2000, X-2000S, X-2000SD, X-5000W, 5000-W, Akai 1700, 1710, 1710W, 200, M8 / M-8, M9 / M-9, X150, 150 150D, X150D, Custom Deck, X-165D, Akai X-330D, 330. These speed change sleeves enable you to play / use the faster 7.5 ips, 15 ips and 30 ips* speed setting. If your deck can't or won't play at the correct speed or you are having a problem playing tapes fast enough and they are dragging then this is likely the fix you need. 

Scroll down to the CORRECT VERSION for your unit BEFORE simply ordering the FIRST one you encounter.

               

Purveyors of Electronic, Musical and Vintage goods from then, now and in between. 
Since 1982.

AKAI SPEED SLEEVE
REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
CAPSTAN BUSHING / SPEED CHANGE SLEEVE / ADAPTOR
REPLACEMENT


CLICK HERE FOR MAIN Hi-Fi PAGE
 


Akai / Roberts Reel to Reel tape recorders / decks utilized a 'sleeve' / adaptor to slip over the capstan to increase it's playback and recording speed. Tapes were recorded at many different speeds. All the way from a very slow 15/16 ips thru 'blazing' 30ips. The slower 15/16ips and 1 7/8" speeds were typically used for 'speech' / 'spoken word' recordings where recording quality was not as important and bandwidth demands were not there as with 'music' program recordings.
Many 'pre-recorded' tapes were recorded at 3 3/4ips and 7 1/2ips for higher quality.
For the best recording quality, many recordists choose the faster writing speeds of 15ips or even 30ips. This was generally reserved for recordings where the absolute best quality sonics and sound were desired. These speeds were commonly used for recording bands in the studio, and not too often for 'home' use (not many 'consumer / home' machines would do more than 7.5 ips anyway).
Of course the faster the tape moves, the shorter the recording time available.

 
     Akai_Small_Speed_Sleeve_web.jpg (23556 bytes)      Akai_Small_Speed_Sleeve_collage.jpg (129917 bytes)      

 

(click on the above thumbnails to enlarge the photos)
AKAI / ROBERTS-Rheem
7.5ips 'LONG' SPEED SLEEVE
REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
CAPSTAN BUSHING / SPEED CHANGE SLEEVE / ADAPTER
MADE OF "HARD, NON-MAGNETIC 7075 ALUMINUM ALLOY" IN THE USA!

for sale

This is a new capstan bushing / speed change sleeve / adapter for certain Akai & Roberts-Rheem Reel to Reel Tape decks such as the;

FITS:
Akai M-8 / M8, Universal 44S, X150D, X-150D, X-165D, 1700, 1710, 1710-W, 1710W, 1710W/L, 1720, 1720W, 1740X, & X-5000-W *(some "5000" models may require the "short" version shown as the next option below if yours has a 'lip / ridge' on the pinch roller), models
and Robert's model 720A,
770, 770X (same as Akai M-8), 997, 1630, 1680, 1725 8L III and maybe others .

(Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)


This allows the faster, better quality, 7.5 ips playback / recording speeds to be achieved. Without this you will only be able to do the slower speeds of 1 7/8ips and 3 3/4 ips
(while some of these decks were originally designed to play 15ips as well, this required a '15 ips kit' which had an 'optional', additional and different speed sleeve and a smaller pinch roller. At this time we are not manufacturing either the 15ips sleeve nor is there a source for the smaller 15ips pinch roller).

If yours is misplaced then here's the fix.

These are new speed sleeves machined individually and made of "HARD ALLOY NON-MAGNETIC 7075 ALUMINUM", not soft brass, that has a short life, so the locking dovetail will not wear. These fit snug on most capstans*** and will stay on with a perfect fitting "locking notch" joint machined into it.

A note about “WoW & Flutter”’; Due to the current manufacturing processes under which these are made at the machine shop, there will generally be some minimal degree of ‘WoW & / or Flutter’, which will likely be more noticeable on ‘higher’ / ‘sustained’ notes and at the higher speed range. “WoW” is a slower, cyclical variance of speed. “Flutter” is a cyclical variance of tone in the ‘higher’ ranges of sound. Unless you are playing back music with quite “sustained” notes, such as long, steady ‘violin notes’ or sustained ‘operatic’ notes or test tones, you likely won’t notice it. The effect will however, be magnified when you playback a tape that has also been recorded utilizing this sleeve. If you are listening to ‘spoken word’ you’ll likely never notice it at all, nor with most music. Also, if playing back at the slower speeds it will be less noticeable, if at all. If you are looking for ‘perfect’ or near perfect “WoW & Flutter” specs, this sleeve probably isn’t for you, but if your need is simply to ‘re-visit’ some old tapes you’ll likely be more than satisfied (frankly, all tape decks have some flutter by design, and certainly 45-65 years after it was originally built, that will most likely be magnified).



$38.50 Shipped
Shipping within the United States is included in price.
Other destinations have an additional shipping charge.

NEW BATCH, JUST IN!

Shipping Location:

These enable you to play / use the faster 7.5 ips tape speed if your deck requires a capstan sleeve to do that. We are always investigating which Akai Reel decks these will fit. We do know it will fit the above listed decks. If you do not see yours listed PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL or CALL to ask if it will, as we do not know yet. This is a "work-in-progress".  As soon as we discover additional models that this sleeve will or will not fit, we will post that info. STUDY THE PHOTOS CLOSELY TO DETERMINE THE FIT FOR YOUR DECK. 
We know these do not fit X-4000D, 4000DB, 4000DS, 4000DS MKII, (all of the "4000" series), 4400 or some of the "M-" series as they use a different sleeve.
Akai 1730-SS and 1730D-SS do not require a speed sleeve, as their 'speed control' is to the right of the input level pots.


"Just to say the new Akai capstan speed sleeve completely sorted out the problems with my machine - sounds  sweet! Thanks." -  Miles, UK

"Hello Jerry, Just wanted to let you know the Akai speed sleeve I ordered arrived today. I appreciate the fast service and the helpful comments you made during the ordering process.
I look forward to doing business again in the future!
Thanks again," - Dave S., Michigan


"Tried the speed adapter last night, and it worked fabulously." - Tim in CT.

 

  (Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)


"I ordered one and it doesn't fit"...Click Here.
 



 
                  

(click on the above thumbnails to enlarge the photos)

AKAI / ROBERTS-Rheem
7.5ips "SHORT" SPEED SLEEVE
REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
CAPSTAN BUSHING / SPEED CHANGE SLEEVE ADAPTOR
 FOR DECKS WITH AN OUTER
'RIDGE' / 'LIP'
ON THE PINCH ROLLER
MADE OF "HARD, NON-MAGNETIC 7075 ALUMINUM ALLOY" IN THE USA!
for sale

This is a new capstan bushing / speed change sleeve adapter for certain Akai & Roberts-Rheem Reel to Reel Tape decks, whose rubber pinch roller has a small ridge or lip on the outside edge (the 'edge' or 'lip' was originally designed into these pinch rollers to keep the speed sleeve and I suppose the tape 'in place' but was really un-necessary, as the speed sleeve generally stays in place by it's own pressure), such as the;

FITS:
Akai M9 / M-9, 1800 series, X-1800SD, 1800-DSS X-2000S, X-2000SD, & X-5000-W *(some "5000" models may require the "short" version shown as the next option below if yours has a 'lip / ridge' on the pinch roller),  models and
Robert's / Rheem model 770X-SS, 771X SS, 778X and maybe others .
AGAIN, units with the "RIDGE / LIP" on the outer edge of the rubber pinch / pressure roller.

(Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

This allows the faster, better quality, 7.5 ips playback / recording speeds to be achieved. Without this you will only be able to do the slower speeds of 1 7/8ips and 3 3/4 ips
.

If yours is misplaced then here's the fix.

These are new speed sleeves machined individually and made of "HARD ALLOY NON-MAGNETIC 7075 ALUMINUM", not soft brass, that has a short life, so the locking dovetail will not wear. These fit snug on most capstans*** and will stay on with a perfect fitting "locking notch" joint machined into it.

A note about “WoW & Flutter”; Due to the current manufacturing processes under which these are made at the machine shop, there will generally be some minimal degree of ‘WoW & / or Flutter’, which will likely be more noticeable on ‘higher’ / ‘sustained’ notes and at the higher speed range. “WoW” is a slower, cyclical variance of speed. “Flutter” is a cyclical variance of tone in the ‘higher’ ranges of sound. Unless you are playing back music with quite “sustained” notes, such as long, steady ‘violin notes’ or sustained ‘operatic’ notes or test tones, you likely won’t notice it. The effect will however, be magnified when you playback a tape that has also been recorded utilizing this sleeve. If you are listening to ‘spoken word’ you’ll likely never notice it at all, nor with most music. Also, if playing back at the slower speeds it will be less noticeable, if at all. If you are looking for ‘perfect’ or near perfect “WoW & Flutter” specs, this sleeve probably isn’t for you, but if your need is simply to ‘re-visit’ some old tapes you’ll likely be more than satisfied (frankly, all tape decks have some flutter by design, and certainly 45-65 years after it was originally built, that will most likely be magnified).

NEW BATCH, JUST IN!


$38.50 Shipped
Shipping within the United States is included in price.
Other destinations have an additional shipping charge.


Shipping Location:

 

These enable you to play / use the faster 7.5 ips tape speed if your deck requires a capstan sleeve to do that. We are always investigating which Akai Reel decks these will fit. We do know it will fit the above listed decks. This is a "work-in-progress".  As soon as we discover additional models that this sleeve will or will not fit, we will post that info. STUDY THE PHOTOS CLOSELY TO DETERMINE THE FIT FOR YOUR DECK. 
We know these do not fit X-4000D, 4000DB, 4000DS, 4400 or some of the "M-" series as they use a different sleeve.

  (Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)


"I ordered one and it doesn't fit"...Click Here.

 



 

      

(click on the above thumbnails to enlarge the photos)
AKAI / ROBERTS-Rheem
7.5IPS
4000 SERIES
SPEED ADAPTOR
REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
CAPSTAN BUSHING / SPEED CHANGE SLEEVE / ADAPTER
MADE OF "HARD, NON-MAGNETIC 7075 ALUMINUM ALLOY" IN THE USA!
for sale

This is a new speed change sleeve / adapter for certain versions of Akai & Roberts Reel to Reel Tape decks such as the;


FITS:
Akai GX-360*, GX-365D*, 3000D, GX-4000D, GX-4400 / GX-4400D, GX-4000D, GX-4000DB, GX-4000DS, GX-4000DS MKII, (all of the "4000" series), 4400
'Convert-A-Deck'
 and
Roberts 450 & maybe the 990 reel to reel decks and possibly others
.  
(Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

This allows the faster 7.5 ips
(15 ips on the GX-360* & GX-365D*, but you will need a small lock washer and the correct / corresponding, smaller pinch roller) playback / recording speeds to be achieved. Without this you will only be able to do the slower speeds and won't be able to achieve the higher quality recording / writing speeds of 7.5ips.

If yours is misplaced then here's the fix.

These are new speed sleeves PAINSTAKINGLY machined individually* and made of "HARD ALLOY NON-MAGNETIC 7075 ALUMINUM", not soft brass, that has a shorter life.
*(We actually modify them slightly from the originals, so they 'lock' better on the capstan, reducing capstan 'spin' and potential for 'slowing speed')

Included fastener my look like the photos or may be a 'Whiz Nut' depending on supplies at the time. (not currently in photos above).

A note about “WoW & Flutter”; Due to the current manufacturing processes under which these are made at the machine shop, there will generally be some minimal degree of ‘WoW & / or Flutter’, which will likely be more noticeable on ‘higher’ / ‘sustained’ notes and at the higher speed range. “WoW” is a slower, cyclical variance of speed. “Flutter” is a cyclical variance of tone in the ‘higher’ ranges of sound. Unless you are playing back music with quite “sustained” notes, such as long, steady ‘violin notes’ or sustained ‘operatic’ notes or test tones, you likely won’t notice it. The effect will however, be magnified when you playback a tape that has also been recorded utilizing this sleeve. If you are listening to ‘spoken word’ you’ll likely never notice it at all, nor with most music. Also, if playing back at the slower speeds it will be less noticeable, if at all. If you are looking for absolutely ‘perfect’ or near perfect “WoW & Flutter” specs, this sleeve probably isn’t for you, but if your need is simply to ‘re-visit’ some old tapes you’ll likely be more than satisfied (frankly, all tape decks have some flutter by design, and certainly 45-65 years after it was originally built, that will most likely be magnified).

NEW BATCH, JUST IN!


$48.50 for Sleeve, Nut** and Washer** Shipped 
Shipping within the United States is included in price.
Other destinations have an additional shipping charge.

Shipping Location:



 

"Just to say the new Akai capstan speed sleeve completely sorted out the problems with my machine - sounds  sweet! Thanks." -  Miles, UK

"Hello Jerry, Just wanted to let you know the Akai speed sleeve I ordered arrived today. I appreciate the fast service and the helpful comments you made during the ordering process.
I look forward to doing business again in the future!
Thanks again," - Dave S., Michigan


"Tried the speed adapter last night, and it worked fabulously." - Tim in CT.


**While the original style of 'top nuts' are not currently practical to source or manufacture, we are now including a 'hex nut' and lock washer that, while lacking in the cosmetics of the original, does function fine. You typically do not need any tools to tighten or loosen as fingers usually do the trick.

Included Hex nut and Washer now made of 'Non-Magnetic', 'Stainless Steel' (not currently in photos above).


These sleeves / speed adaptors enable you to play / use the faster 7.5 ips tape speed if your deck requires a capstan sleeve to do that. We are always investigating which Akai Reel decks these will fit. We do know it will fit the above listed decks. This is a "work-in-progress".  As soon as we discover additional models that this sleeve will or will not fit, we will post that info.
STUDY THE PHOTOS CLOSELY TO DETERMINE THE FIT FOR YOUR DECK. 
We know these "4000" sleeves do not fit
X-150D, 1700, 1710-W, X-1800SD, 1800-DSS, X-2000S & X-5000-W models and Robert's model 1680 / 1725 8L III, 770X 771X SS.  or the "M-" series as they use a different sleeve (shown on this page, above this version).

  (Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

IF: "*you ordered one and it doesn't fit", "it's too small" or it's "too snug"...Click Here.

 



 
        

(click on the above thumbnails to enlarge the photos)
AKAI / ROBERTS-Rheem
15ips / 30ips 'SHORT'
SPEED SLEEVE
REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
CAPSTAN BUSHING / SPEED CHANGE SLEEVE / ADAPTER
MADE OF "HARD, NON-MAGNETIC 7075 ALUMINUM ALLOY" IN THE USA!
for sale

This is a new 15ips**  / 30ips* capstan bushing / speed change sleeve / adapter for certain Akai & Roberts-Rheem Reel to Reel Tape decks.

**HOWEVER, NOTE; YOU WILL NEED THE ORIGINALLY SUPPLIED, SMALLER DIAMETER RUBBER PINCH ROLLER TO ALLOW CLEARANCE WHEN MACHINE IS IN 'STOP' MODE.  WE DO NOT HAVE THE RUBBER PINCH ROLLERS AVAILABLE, ONLY THE METAL 15IPS SLEEVE. If you do not have the smaller pinch roller for 15ips, you can likely get one made or source an original to 'machine smaller'. Try www.terrysrubberrollers.com for that possibility.

These will fit and MAY** allow 15 ips** speed on such Akai reel to reel tape decks as the;
Akai M-9, 1800 series, X-1800SD, 1800-DSS models and Robert's / Rheem model 770X SS, 771X SS, 778X  and maybe others .
Should also function on the Akai M-8 / M8, X150D, X-150D, 1700, 1710, 1710-W, 1710W, 1710W/L, 1720, 1720W, X-2000S, X-2000SD & X-5000-W models and Robert's model 720A, 997,1630, 1680, 1725 8L III and maybe others.
 
(Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

**This allows the fastest speed of 15 ips playback / recording
(*or potentially 30ips playback / recording speeds on the Akai GX-365D*) speeds to be achieved so if you have tapes recorded at 15ips, you can now play them back correctly. Also, if you are making new recordings and want the best quality sound possible, then increase the 'writing' / recording speed to 15 inches per second. This sleeve was primarily utilized to transfer reel to reel tape to a 'built-in' "8-Track Cartridge" deck on such tape machines as the Akai X-1800SD. As an 8-Track cartridge moved at 3.75 ips, you needed to run the deck at it's 'slow' speed. However, if the reel tape you were transferring to the 8-track was recorded at 7.5 ips, it would be too slow, thus the 15 ips sleeve would make the reel tape speed correct. This sleeve will allow that.

If yours is misplaced then here's the fix.
These are new speed sleeves machined individually and made of "HARD ALLOY NON-MAGNETIC 7075 ALUMINUM", not soft brass, that has a short life, so the locking dovetail will not wear. These fit snug on most capstans*** and will stay on with a perfect fitting "locking notch" joint machined into it.

A note about “WoW & Flutter”; Due to the current manufacturing processes under which these are made at the machine shop, there will generally be some minimal degree of ‘WoW & / or Flutter’, which will likely be more noticeable on ‘higher’ / ‘sustained’ notes and at the higher speed range. “WoW” is a slower, cyclical variance of speed. “Flutter” is a cyclical variance of tone in the ‘higher’ ranges of sound. Unless you are playing back music with quite “sustained” notes, such as long, steady ‘violin notes’ or sustained ‘operatic’ notes or test tones, you likely won’t notice it. The effect will however, be magnified when you playback a tape that has also been recorded utilizing this sleeve. If you are listening to ‘spoken word’ you’ll likely never notice it at all, nor with most music. Also, if playing back at the slower speeds it will be less noticeable, if at all. If you are looking for ‘perfect’ or near perfect “WoW & Flutter” specs, this sleeve probably isn’t for you, but if your need is simply to ‘re-visit’ some old tapes you’ll likely be more than satisfied (frankly, all tape decks have some flutter by design, and certainly 45-65 years after it was originally built, that will most likely be magnified).

$54.50 Shipped
NOW SOLD OUT. SORRY.


(includes Postal 1st Class shipping to any of the US states.
Other locations slightly higher.)

These enable you to play / use the faster 15 ips tape speed if your deck requires a capstan sleeve to do that and YOU ALREADY HAVE THE SMALLER 15IPS RUBBER PINCH ROLLER, OR HAVE A SOURCE FOR ONE, OR HAVE 'FILED DOWN' AN ORIGINAL. We are always investigating which Akai Reel decks these will fit. We do know it will fit the above listed decks. This is a "work-in-progress". As soon as we discover additional models that this sleeve will or will not fit, we will post that info. STUDY THE PHOTOS CLOSELY TO DETERMINE THE FIT FOR YOUR DECK. 
We know these do not fit X-4000D, 4000DB, 4000DS, 4400 or some of the "M-" series as they use a different sleeve.
Ps. I see a few 'worried comments' out on the web about 'wow and flutter' if you decide to 'machine / file / sand' down a normal pinch roller to use for 15ips, or how to calculate the 'exact', correct diameter. The pinch roller simply 'follows' the rotation of the capstan. It's diameter does not affect the speed, and unless you are egregiously errant in your 'filing / sanding' of the pinch / pressure roller, it won't have an audible affect on "WoW & Flutter". It's diameter only needs to be reduced enough to one; allow clearance for the tape to fit between the capstan sleeve and the pinch roller when in the 'STOP' position and two; not to be so large in diameter as to put undue pressure on the tape / capstan when in 'PLAY' (this second point is the more critical of the two and it would be good to know the diameter of whatever pinch roller was original to get 'close' to in dimension). The best way to 'machine' down a rubber roller / tire / wheel for most folks is to use your drill press, with an 'accurate' fitting mandrel thru the bushing of the pinch roller (making sure the mandrel is not too snug, or loose [allowing 'run-out'] and not to use too much torque so as to deform the soft, bronze bushing). Then use some 150-180 grit sand paper or emery board at 90 degrees to remove the necessary material. Follow this with a wash down of a rubber recondition such as 'Rubber-Renue'.
Of course follow all safety rules doing any of the above, with any of the above mentioned machines / materials / supplies / chemicals etc. Oh, and also, don't stick a knife in an electrical socket, razor blades are sharp, if the sign says "bridge out" don't keep driving, don't wear a neck tie while operating shop machinery, don't eat the silica desiccant (it's not 'tapioca'), don't stick your tongue on a frozen flagpole in winter, don't try and iron your shirt while wearing it (yes, that's an actual warning label), never use a match or open flame to check a fuel level, don't eat dishwasher pods, and don't etc...etc....etc...!.

  (Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

"I ordered one and it doesn't fit"...Click Here.
 



(click on the above thumbnails to enlarge the photos)

NEW ADDITION
AKAI / ROBERTS-Rheem
ORIGINAL / OEM
15ips / 30ips* KIT
SPEED SLEEVE and CORRESPONDING PINCH ROLLER
FOR AKAI X-360 AND GX-365 REEL TO REEL TAPE DECKS
for sale

This is a new 15ips  / 30ips* capstan bushing / speed change sleeve / adapter for certain Akai & Roberts-Rheem Reel to Reel Tape decks.


This allows the fastest speed of 15 ips playback / recording
(*or potentially 30ips playback / recording speeds on the Akai GX-365D*) speeds to be achieved so if you have tapes recorded at 15ips, you can now play them back correctly. Also, if you are making new recordings and want the best quality sound possible, then increase the 'writing' / recording speed to 15 inches per second.

A note about “WoW & Flutter”; Due to the current manufacturing processes under which these are made at the machine shop, there will generally be some minimal degree of ‘WoW & / or Flutter’, which will likely be more noticeable on ‘higher’ / ‘sustained’ notes and at the higher speed range. “WoW” is a slower, cyclical variance of speed. “Flutter” is a cyclical variance of tone in the ‘higher’ ranges of sound. Unless you are playing back music with quite “sustained” notes, such as long, steady ‘violin notes’ or sustained ‘operatic’ notes or test tones, you likely won’t notice it. The effect will however, be magnified when you playback a tape that has also been recorded utilizing this sleeve. If you are listening to ‘spoken word’ you’ll likely never notice it at all, nor with most music. Also, if playing back at the slower speeds it will be less noticeable, if at all. If you are looking for ‘perfect’ or near perfect “WoW & Flutter” specs, this sleeve probably isn’t for you, but if your need is simply to ‘re-visit’ some old tapes you’ll likely be more than satisfied (frankly, all tape decks have some flutter by design, and certainly 45-65 years after it was originally built, that will most likely be magnified).

$145.00 Shipped
ONLY 1-2 AVAILABLE.


(includes Postal 1st Class shipping to any of the US states.
Other locations slightly higher.)

These enable you to play / use the faster 15 ips tape speed on the Akai X-360 and 30ips on the Akai X-365.

  (Above text, in it's entirety, including 'fit list' property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 


Click here for:
 

MORE
R
EEL TO REEL
 ACCESSORIES



*** "I ordered one and it doesn't fit"...
So occasionally we'll get the call / email,
"Hey, I ordered one of these and it doesn't fit my machine!"

There are typically one of four reasons this happens or 'could' happen.

1) The 'wrong' sleeve was ordered (this happens about 10% of the time and is about 80% of the reason for them not fitting. There are 4 different options on this page. The page covers all of the Akai / Roberts decks that require sleeves (as far as we've discovered), and you must 'scroll' down to the correct sleeve, based on it's 'fit list'. Usually it's someone needing a "4000" series, and they've simply ordered the first 'sleeve' they come to, without reading the 'fit list' or looking carefully at the photo.

2) The capstan on the deck is compromised in some way.
Typically it's a build-up of 'tape debris / goo / residue' mixed with other substances such as oils and migrated lubes, nicotine, etc. There's only a couple hundredths of a mm clearance / tolerance with our speed sleeves and it doesn't take much for the sleeve to fit too snugly, get stuck or not go on very far at all. Sleeves MUST be installed on 'CLEAN' capstans with no residual goo or surface corrosion or pitting or ANYTHING. The best way to clean the capstan shaft is with cotton swabs and a solvent (lacquer thinner or Alcohol, or Acetone or similar, 'non-oily' solvent). If you suspect corrosion / pitting to the surface, you can try some 'finer' grade Scotchbrite pad (NOT sandpaper unless it's finer than say about 1000 grit).
Other reasons for this can be a capstan that is not 'true' (bent). Again, due to the close tolerance of the sleeve, it wouldn't take much of a bend (although there's not much of a reason for a capstan to ever get bent).  A bent / tweaked capstan might have visible 'wobble' when turning, especially at the highest speed, but may require inspection with a 'known straightedge'.
The capstan has been 'hit' on the front of it at some time, causing a bit of a 'mushroom' at the tip  (think of how a chisel gets after it's been hit quite a few times with a hammer). Could have been caused by someone taping on the end with a hammer, maybe during servicing to remove a stuck / tight flywheel from the bushing. You might be able to 'feel' a 'mushroomed' tip.  You may need a 'micrometer' to inspect it with.
This might be remedied by a fine toothed file applied just to the very tip of the capstan to 'bevel' it.  I've seen this a couple times on decks we've service here at the shop. Unless you have a proper 'thread die' set, I wouldn't do this on a 4000 series.

3) We shipped the wrong one (hasn't happened yet in 2+ decades, but I'm sure there'll be a 'first')

4) We made it with a bore that's too small. Each of these are finished by hand, and test fit to two different original capstans (yes, we have them from original decks). Even in doing that, we'll still get one that through that fits our 'test' examples, but will be too snug or won't go on very far, or even start on another deck (you should be able to install and remove the capstan sleeve with only your fingers. No tools should be required). It doesn't happen very often, but it has. If this happens, and you're ABSOLUTELY SURE it's not for "reason #2" let us know.
 

A recent example of a sleeve not fitting;
A person called said the sleeve we sent him was too tight, and now 'stuck' about 3/4 of the way down on their Akai GX-4000D.  My first assumption was that they ordered the 'wrong' sleeve (as is almost always the reason when a "4000" is involved).  I looked at their original order, and they ordered the correct one.  My next thought was that we shipped the wrong one.  After a couple more questions, I knew they received the correct one.  I asked if the capstan was clean and they, of course, assured me it was.  To help them with the removal of the capstan, the customers wife 'Face-Timed' with me as they were having a hard time trying to figure out how to remove it.  I could see a build-up of tape residue on the pinch roller of this deck they had just picked up at an Estate sale (I certainly could assume the capstan wouldn't look much better).  They were able to remove it by prying behind it with a couple screw drivers, flanking the capstan.  I was on the verge of resigning myself that I had sent a 4000 series sleeve that was 'too snug' (hadn't happened yet on a "4000 series", but I figured it was just simply a first).  At the same time, I noticed there wasn't a 'storage pin' on the face of the unit, and then remembered that on "4000" series decks, the sleeve was stored under the head cover when not in use.  This was all 'news' to the new owner of the deck.  I had him pull the head cover off the deck and sure enough, there was the original capstan sleeve and knurled nut / cap.  He was astounded.  I had him remove it from the storage pin and try and install it, and it too wouldn't go on very far at all.  I then told him he needed to clean and possibly burnish the surface of the capstan (as discussed above), and then his original should fit (as would've mine).  I also pointed out that he of course no longer needed the one he ordered from me, and gave him the address to send it back.
This call took just short of an hour of shop time (mostly being on the phone while he located tools ( a couple of screwdrivers) to remove the stuck sleeve). Yes, we charged our re-stocking fee. Amounted to about $7.00 for almost an hour of shop time on the phone. WooooHooo. Oh well, that's how it goes sometimes.
 

 

 


 


 

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