How to Remove Stuck Audio Tape From a Car Tape Deck
With the advent of the compact disc, cars with old-fashioned tape decks are few and far between. Those who cling to the original ways can still get plenty of use and enjoyment from their tapes, so long as things continue to function properly. When a tape gets stuck inside the tape deck, however, it can spell disaster for the deck and the cassette. It can be nearly impossible to remove a stuck tape without damaging the cassette. However, you may be able to get it out without completely ruining your car's tape player.
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Instructions
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Make sure the car is not running, and that the key is not in the ignition, so that no power is flowing to the tape deck. Using the flat, non-hooked end of the dental pick, pry the tape up from its position as much as you can; generally it will budge only a fraction of an inch.
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Turn the pick around and use the hook to gently pull the cassette towards you, out of the machine. The tape that was stuck in the back of the deck should follow as you slowly pull the cassette forward.
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3
Wind the tape back into the cassette using the eraser from a pencil.
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Tips & Warnings
If necessary, you may need to remove the car's tape deck system from your dashboard to remove the stuck tape. Follow your car's owner's manual for instructions, as this procedure will vary by make and model. From there, unscrew the top cover of the tape deck and remove the tape from above.
Once a tape gets stuck, it's very likely that another will as well. Be cautious when using the tape deck in the future.
