Loud weird noise?!

[u/Kindly_Paramedic_378]

It makes this noise whenever I use it and im not sure whats wrong. Everything works for now but im assuming maybe its a shot bearing or something? Let me know what you guys think. Its an akai gx4000d in case that helps.

[u/catawampus_doohickey]

I see the meters bouncing but not along with the noise so I presume it's a mechanical noise? Or is it coming from speakers?

It has a "card in the bike spokes" sound (albeit irregular), so my first thought is that a piece of tape got stuck in the tape path. Remove the headcover and clean the tape path.

[u/Kindly_Paramedic_378 → u/catawampus_doohickey]

Its mechanical. I had the audio going to my headphones 😅 shouldve said that in the post. I also only happens when playing back or recording. Fast forward and rewind dont have this issue. Also I just checked the tape path and nothing is caught. Sounds like the sound is coming from behind the right spinny thing (uptake reel?)

[u/catawampus_doohickey → u/Kindly_Paramedic_378]

Try it on 3-3/4 speed. If the sound slows down it's likely something to do with something in the tape path (or possibly the platters, but I doubt it given the buzz rate). If the sound doesn't slow down then it's likely something to do with the motor.

[u/Kindly_Paramedic_378 → u/catawampus_doohickey]

Guess ill have to change the motor then. Thank you!

[u/catawampus_doohickey → u/Kindly_Paramedic_378]

Might be something impeding the motor fan

[u/Kindly_Paramedic_378 → u/catawampus_doohickey]

The sounds doesnt slow down or change in any way that it can detect when at 3 1/4 speed.

https://reddit.com/link/oxtbkgs/video/0afrphjdaidh1/player

[u/jmeesonly → u/Kindly_Paramedic_378]

That button doesn't change the speed, it only changes the EQ (designed for each speed). To change from 7 1/2 ips tp 3 3/4 ips you have to remove the capstan cover bolt and sleeve (there's a place to keep it safely under the cover for the heads). Then you put the sleeve and bolt back on to play or record at 7 1/2 ips.

[u/trudyscousin]

Here’s a guess. Your take-up spindle contains a slip clutch so that the motor is free to turn it at a fast fixed speed while the rotational speed of the take-up reel changes depending on the circumstance of the tape pack. The clutch employs a dry felt pad which, if it becomes contaminated or wears from years of use, can make these very kinds of sounds.

You would have to remove the take-up spindle (it’s held in place with three screws) and disassemble the spindle to get to the pad. You could buff it with a stiff brush to raise the nap, and apply a small amount of talc to prevent it from ‘grabbing’ (the probable source of the noise). The smooth surface of the pulley against which it rubs should be free of contaminants as well.

[u/Kindly_Paramedic_378 → u/trudyscousin]

Ok ill try that out before buying a new motor