Weird speed issue with Otari 5050

[dkeithpeoples]

I just finished building my Eros tape preamplifier and the first time I played my recently restored and upgraded MX5050 everything sounded like it was working fine except for the tape rubbing against a bent take up reel. I replaced the take up reel and now I cannot get the tape player to run at normal playback speed. The display says it is set on 15 ips. When I hit the play button it takes off at fast forward speed. Has anyone ever seen a problem like this? Am I missing a switch somewhere? Could I have blown a fuse?

[docb]

When you press the play button is the pinch roller engaging and clamping the tape against the capstan?

[dkeithpeoples]

Thanks. That might have been the problem. It is working today. It sounds wondrous. The combination of the Magnetic flux tape head with the Eros is incredible. I can't wait to play one of my Tape Project tapes but I need to figure out a better way to fast rewind. The method I used did not wrap the tape tight enough. What are the best practices for rewinding ?

[docb]

If the tape is packing too loose the brakes may need adjusting.

[Listens2tubes]

Try cleaning (DeOxit) and exercising the Pitch Control, that even when off can cause speed issues.

[Waltzingbear]

This is a common problem for all versions of the MX5050, cleaning the pitch control switch will give you better sleep at night knowing your deck will roll tape at a consistent speed.  :-)

Cheers
Alan