This thread covers a problem found in WM-D6/D6Cs. Problem manifests as follows: the supply reel rotates while there is no cassette inserted, but as soon as load is put on the reel (a cassette inserted) a loud gear noise can be heard and reel stops rotating. The root cause of this problem is a cracked table reel. What happens is the shaft becomes loose in the reel hence creating up-down play in the drive gear as seen in attached picture. Solution is to glue the shaft to the reel with super glue. Procedure is as follows: - remove the table reel from the shaft, you need to pull it's a press fit; - remove the drive gear/shaft assembly, clean and re-lubricate with watch oil; - insert the drive gear/shaft assembly back into the brass bushing; - clean any excess oil on the other side in order to make sure glue will grip; - put a drop of glue inside the reel, making sure the surface that comes into contact with nylon washer is free of any glue; - put the reel back on its drive shaft, while keeping a finger on the white gear on the opposite side; Push the reel all the way in. Do not that a small up-down play (0.1mm or so) is normal. - clean any excess glue on the visible part of the reel; After letting the glue dry, you can re-assemble the unit and use it as normal. I recommend keeping the cassette door open while the glue is curing, as this type of glue will create vapours that can leave a white residue on the door. NOTE1: Broken table reels is something I have seen in WM-DD series as well, solution being the same. However, given the different design, in the WM-DD series you won't hear any gear noise but the shaft will slip inside the reel, yielding low torque. NOTE2: Problem can happen on the takeup reel as well, solution being the same.
