Kenwood cassette decks, like virtually all tape decks, use a motorized system with a drive belt to move the magnetic analog tape in a cassette across the playback and recording heads. If the rubber belt breaks or stretches to the point where it no longer supplies adequate tension on the drive shaft, the tape deck will not work. Replacing the belt takes about half an hour using common household tools. You'll need a replacement belt, which can be ordered or purchased using the model number of your particular Kenwood.
Instructions
1. Unplug the Kenwood tape deck's power cord from the wall outlet. Leave any audio cables connected to the back panel, since these will not interfere with safe replacement of the belt.
2. Remove the screws that hold the metal cover of the tape deck on the body of the component. There are screws on the sides and on the top edge of the back panel. Place the screws in a safe location for reuse.
3. Slide the cover off the tape deck and inspect the interior of the component. Look for a black rubber belt just behind the main compartment for the cassette. The motor and drive shaft are to the left. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the belt path around the drive shaft and the rollers for the cassette capstans.
4. Remove the old belt by pulling gently with needle nose pliers and lifting it off the drive shaft. If the old belt is broken, simply lift it out of the deck and discard.
5. Install the new belt over the drive shaft, pulleys and capstan, following the same path as the old belt. Push gently on the belt so it seats properly in the grooves around the drive shaft wheel and pulleys.
6. Remove your hands and tools from inside the tape deck then plug in the power cord.
7. Insert a pre-recorded cassette in the tape deck and press the drive buttons on the front of the deck to test operation. Start with the "Play" button then test the "Rewind" and "FF" (Fast-forward) controls to confirm the belt is driving the tape normally. Press "Stop" when the tests are complete.
8. Slide the cover back onto the Kenwood deck and fasten it in place with the screws.
Tags: drive shaft, tape deck, around drive, around drive shaft, back panel, cover tape, cover tape deck