Changing head drums

[sirugo]

I have an (old, 1989) VCR that obviously needs a change of head drum after some years of high quality delivery of VHS signals.

I have found a new head at a reasonable ($30) price but the question is if I will be able to change it myself. Will it need special calibration that can only be done by a pro or can I sort things out myself with a great deal of patience?

Anyone?

[Cornucopia]

No, you will not be able to do it by yourself. That requires special installation & calibration tools, thorough knowledge of azimuth adjustment etc., service manuals, and more. Don't do it alone, use a pro.

Scott

[sirugo]

So it will require more than a screwdriver?
=)

[barrybear]

You will need to recalibrate the head. this can be quite tricky as the rf coming off the drum assembly has to be balanced and tuned for the 2 heads that provide the off tape signal.

Barrybear

[mats.hogberg]

So it will require more than a screwdriver?

Don't think even a double Long Island Ice Tea will help...

/Mats

[sirugo]

Hej, Mats.
Det var synd.

[mats.hogberg]

Just pulling your leg - don't know zip about VCR's. But it sounds like a delicate and scary task - as everything analog !

/Mats

[Savant]

The actual physical replacement of the head is not the hard part, the alignment is. The tools one would need to do an alignment include:

-dual trace oscilloscope
-digital multi-meter
-pattern generator
-frequency counter
-alignment tape
-blank tape
-colour TV
-standard repair tools

You would also need the specification sheet for the unit.

Honestly, you're better off having a shop do it for you since it will be faster and easer than doing it yourself. While I've worked on VCR's, I wouldn't do a head replacement myself even though I do have access to the tools required. It's not my forté, and just not worth the trouble if I screw it up.

Regards,

Savant