Audio Systems: Cassette Audio out in Left Channel, becker grand prix, dirty head

Question
I have installed a replacement Becker Grand Prix 1480 with Cassette Player in my 1990 Mercedes 300SE. The FM stereo works fine to both channels, but the Cassette Audio only goes to the right channel. Even if I set the Balance at -8 (100% to left) there is nothing in the left side.

Hope you can help with suggestions,
Pete

Answer
Pete,
The tape audio problem may be due to a defective connection on the tape head, a very dirty head or a fault with the head preamp chip/IC. On several of these becker stereos I found defective connections on the circuit board for the tape head wires.


TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net