My Aiwa PC202 (mkI), has a problem when playing other side of the tape. It plays same side but backwards. I think the problem happend rarely, but now it happens often. I thought there is some kind of tape side detector, but I don't see anything that will check the hole in the tape. Thanks in advance for any idea.
On my Aiwa there is a tape side switch. I don't have the service manual for the PC202 but there is a switch on the PCB in the pre-amp section, might be worth cleaning with contact cleaner. See photo attached.
Thank you I will probably recap (or at least look if most notorious caps should be replaced) it soon, so I will surely clean this switch.
Just to make sure, this switch, plastic part on the right should move? I'm afraid that I can break it.
Yes, the plastic part on the right should move. You won't break it if you're careful, spray some contact cleaner (I recommend Kontakt 60) and move it back and forth 5-10 times. Also be mindful when installing the board, cause that is where you can break the switch if you don't pay attention to the position of the mech in relation to the swich. Be mindful NOT to use stuff like WD-40 or petroleum based products (like brake cleaner or anything automotive related), because those won't do any good. As for the caps, the most notorious ones that should be replaced are the 2 output ones (black in the picture). However, in this particular unit it is recommended that you replace all of them.
As I tried this Aiwa few more times the problem for now is gone. Idon't know if it was problem with tapes, or using it some more made switch working correctly. My MII version though has developed similar problem but that's for another topic.
