[TinCanAlley]

I just put the unit back on the bench for more diags and this time connected it to a small LCD monitor via the composite output. Upon playing a tape, the image was as perfect as an old VHS can look. No rolling, tearing, etc. I am attaching a pic.

So, is it the unit's RF output or my TV? I currently have a laserdisc, DVD and Atari 2600 on the TV's RF and none of them have any image issues.

One thing I did notice, and it might be normal, but I figured I'd ask. When doing FF, the tape is tight from cassette all the way around the transport to the other end. If I FR, the tape gets loose on the right side from the guide arm to the cassette body. I've attached 2 pics of both FF and FR.

Lastly, when I stop the tape, it doesn't fully retract as there is an arm that pulls it out of the cassette when loading, but doesn't put it back until you eject the tape. In this position I can't see to get it to RW or FF. It seems to be doing something, but gives up shortly after pressing either of those controls. Could it be the idler tire I haven't replaced?

Thanks again!