Audio Systems: CD Player Will Not Eject, jvc cd player, rubber rollers

Question
Dear Mr. Lampi,

Hello, I have a JVC CD Player in my vehicle, and it is, of course, an aftermarket headunit.  The JVC cd-player is model number "KD-S5050"    (photo can be seen here: http://www.xocute.com/images/products/kd-s5050_big.jpg)

I recently attempted to eject the CD that was in the cd-player, however, the CD will not eject.  The eject display shows up on the screen, but no ejection occurs.  The CD player will, in fact, play the CD but NOT once I hit eject.  Once I hit eject and the CD does not eject, the CD will not play.  On the other hand, once I turn the CD player off and then back on, the CD will play just fine.

In as much as I am certain that a CD player not ejecting the CD is a common problem, what steps can I take to remove the CD from the unit, without damaging it.  What assurance do I have that this will not occur with the next CD that I insert?

Is this a fixable problem or should I replace the whole unit?  I am mechanically inclined so if there is a diagnosis and solution to the problem that involves taking the unit apart, I believe I am competent to do so.

Please advise.  Thank you.


Stuck in Myrtle Beach,
Jeff

Answer
usually once a cd player is a few years old the rubber rollers that manage getting the cd in and out start to wear.  there may be an adjustement for it to squeze them together more.  Try taking the unit out and removing the top of the unit and see if you can see the rollers near the door where you insert the cd.  if they are bent or visibly worn see if there's a way to make them straight or closer together (whichever applies).  sometimes they are extreamly difficult to get too since the cd players have all kinds of layers of sheet metal all over that move around to get the cd in and out.  you may get lucky though.  give it a shot.