I have a SONY WM-D6C, owner since new. Everything works, FF, REW, Counter, LEDs, pinch roller – except the take-up spool won't turn when in playback or record. The spool moves very slightly, then stops. Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Thank you, Jipper
This is a common problem on many old SONYs sharing a similar mechanism (TPS-L2, WM-3). The takeup reel is turned by a rubber idler that, in time, becomes hard and loose its grip. The rubber part that I'm talking about can be seen in "Mechanism 2" picture (the smaller one) in this thread: https://stereo2go.com/forums/threads/sony-tps-l2-wm-3-restoration-tutorial-mechanical.7123/ , which you can take as a reference because the mechanism is nearly identical, except the motor and flywheel part. I also recommend checking this thread, as you will need to take the motor out to replace the capstan ring: https://stereo2go.com/forums/threads/wm-dd-series-mech-adjustments-applies-to-d6c-tc-d5m.7377/ There are actually a lot of steps, which I will include in a future thread that will be specific to the D6C. I'll check the pictures that I already have from servicing such units and maybe I'll create the thread sooner. Although everything is working, given the age of this walkman, it is recommended to replace all the rubber parts (capstan ring, FF/REW idler, play idler, main belt). You can leave the counter belt alone if it's good, as that one is hard to replace (you need to take out a lot of parts to get there). You can find the rubber set here: https://fixyouraudio.com/product/sony-wm-d6c-cassette-player-walkman-complete-rubber-set/ Last but not least, are you sure the unit is not in PAUSE mode ?
