8 TRACK FOAM

[woadl]

Hello, does anyone know of an easy way to replace the pressure foam on an old 8 track cartridge and what sort of foam should I use ??

thanks

Woadl

[Nakdoc]

The foam is fairly soft open cell foam. Stick it on with silicone as most glues will dissolve the foam. Perhaps you can find some at Michaels craft stores?

[retrokeeper]

I use a adhesive-backed foam,for insulation of doors and windows,sold by Ace Hardware,here in Washington state.I'm sure you can find a similiar type where you are.I try to match the depth of the new foam with the factory type.I don't think you should just cram any size foam in the cartridge opening,which includes the head contact area and sensor post opening for the track change.The foam I use works pretty well,except for the plastic film that was on top of the foam,that was on the factory foam,before it crumbles away from age.Also,not matching the depth up just right will prematurely rub-off the lubrication on the back of the tape,which the tape needs to move freely thru the cartridge and itself.Try to trim the foam to fit where the prior foam was,and pay special attention to the head and the tape guide post attached to the head on the left as you look into the deck from the cartridge slot.I use a foam-cell type,which seems to mimic the origial pretty darn close.The felt pad used in the metal-spring type carts,can come off too,and you can also find it in the hardware store,it has an adhesive back,and can be trimmed to fit.
Also be forwarned,the tape splice/track change foil on most of the 8-tracks will probably need re-connected,as it will let go as soon as the tape reached the track change foil.I use standard reel-to-reel splicing tape for this,and you have to be careful to align it up just right to look like the original.Hopefully the tape doesn't get sucked up into the cart,or you'll have to take apart the cartridge to retrieve it...been there/done that quite a few times.I've currently re-foamed and re-felted/respliced about 300-400 tapes so far in my collection,they are truly a labor of love!! Rob

[Larry N]

PM your address to me and I will send you samples of what I use to make them. Visuals are always good.

[edgooding]

You can buy some foam pads from here.
http://www.katestrackshack.com/suppliesforsale.htm
They work pretty good and they are not too expensive.

[woadl]

thanks for all the info I think I will order some from Kates Track Shack, thanks for the link

[braxus]

Rob,

One day I may send you some tapes to refoam for me. I tried it and I could never get the high end to work on my deck with the new foam. Most are Radio Shack tapes which have never been used, but like to get fixed anyway.

[retrokeeper]

Sure thing Braxus,let me know when...we can make it a re-foam/check out the Mantuary/welcome to Whidbey Island gathering/party/TH Mini-Meet!! Rob