Broken Teac A-2020 Reel to Reel [Tape Decks, Part 2]

This Teac A-2020 was in really bad shape, and there were no easy-to-find parts. So it's still broken. However, it has a very unique design and some cool features, like bi-directional playback (auto reverse without the "auto"). There's extra spindle storage inside for conversion between 50 and 60 Hz. Unfortunately, at this time it is not worth the effort to keep working on it, since I lack a replacement for the disintegrated idler wheel. This was purchased along with the $30 Sony from the other video, and it seems older (6707 was printed inside, so I'm assuming it was made in 1967). The Sony had more advanced features like Sound on Sound and they are right up front and labeled for the technical user. This Teac has more emphasis on clean design and it hides complexity from you when it can. So if I were to compare these to phones, the Sony is an Android and the Teac is an iPhone - even down to the proprietary connectors.. This turned out to be an interesting footnote to the Sony purchase and if we ever find a source for the idler wheels we might put some more time into restoring it.

[rg]

I have one identical and have it since 1985. I recently pulled it out and played it but it stalled. I took the plate off and noticed that the pinch roller's rubber melted and made a verry sticky black substance. All it needs is another pinch roller and a good cleaning but I have not the part to fix it. Great video by the way.

[chrisdieringer]

Recently purchased one of these… would love to get it operational. If you still have and would be willing to part with your machine, please let me know.

[MewtwoM]

Yuck, that Beatles song was AWFUL. Very erratic speed. Too much wow and flutter. I agree with you on the fact it was very much abused. By the way, that gunk on the capstan flywheel is from the idler that disintegrated. I bet some good strong rubbing alcohol could get that off. However, the idler wheel is beyond repair and so yes, it is a shame you can't find a good one to replace it. Now I can't say for sure, but maybe eBay might have some replacement parts, like maybe another idler wheel that might fit the one that's currently disintegrated. As for the pressure pads not moving into place to hold the tape up against the head, I suspect that's due to dried-up grease not allowing it to work properly. I bet if that was cleaned out really good and re-lubricated with either good grease or some oil, it'd work better. That is, if you want to get back into that. It doesn't have to be done if you don't want to. I was just saying, as a suggestion.

[paulosilva]

I have the same equipment but it is broken and I do not know where to repair it

[petezouras]

I have same issue with two idler pulleys disintegrating. Can you tell where you got replacements?