I have two of these decks, purchased in 1976 and 1977, both new. The reason there are two pinch rollers is to isolate the part of the tape contacting the heads, improving head to tape contact, and improving wow and flutter. Pretty much all the top 3 head decks had two pinch rollers. I replaced the pinch rollers on both my decks about 5 years ago with Terry's rollers. he does a fantastic job of putting new rubber on old rollers. Can't recommend him highly enough. I have replaced the belts on both machines probably 5 or 6 times each, and it's not too difficult. I have also replaced the meter lamps and control lights with LED's as well. These machines were definitely designed by folks who designed their reel to reel units (I also have an Akai GX-636) and performs like one. I have never had any problem stacking these up against any of the other top tier decks. I have used mine regularly over the years, and have only done the above mentioned servicing. Definitely got my money's worth.
Dual pinch rollers are a high end feature for controlling tape tension. Much more consistent than using the crappy pressure pads built into the cassette. Awesome deck.
Question for you. I have this exact unit. It too has suffered from sitting way too long. I'm trying to get a rough idea what a restoration like you've done would run? Just a rough estimate would be helpful. I inherited this unit. Remember it from my youth. Thanks...
I have the same deck, everything seem to work fine, but sometimes, after 10-15 min , it plays not in normal speed, it slowly. what seems to be the problem? thanks.
