Wtd Zenith 57Z Reel to Reel Tape Recorder

jrcc77 · by **jrcc77** » Sat Jul 06, 2013 2:17 am

Restoring a YT960 console that had the tape recorder removed. Mechanism and wiring all present but trying to locate the tape recorder. It was a Zenith badged Wollensak. Any leads would be greatly appreciated.

lynnster1952 · by **lynnster1952** » Mon Dec 02, 2013 6:42 am

Did you find a 57Z? While googling the 57Z, I found your post from July. I have a totally restored YT960 & it's fabulous. A lot of love went into my console as I had to take all components out for repair and I personally refinished the tops that were very damaged. I found THE BEST R2R guy on the planet so if you find a Z57, it will likely need a lot of work, beginning with capacitor replacement. If you haven't found the R2R yet, you might have a long search as it's rare to find. YOu might consider getting one of the 5700 series Wollensak's as they are essentially identical. (I'm listening to a portable Wollensak 5740 as I type, so I'm blessed with 2 wonderful R2R's. I bought it in case my 57Z was beyond repair) I assume you know you know that Wollensak made the 57Z & badged it Zenith..Good luck & let me know where you're at, now some 5 months later.

jrcc77 · by **jrcc77** » Sun Dec 15, 2013 6:04 pm

Hi Lynn
Just saw your response. Thanks for the info. I have tracked down ANOTHER YT960 that is intact but also needs a lot. Between the two I will end up with perfect. Who know, maybe two!

I have actually been following your progress. You've inspired me to take this on. I know nothing about electronics but I can google like crazy

. Fortunately we have an old tv stereo shop still open here in Greenville SC and they are happy to give tips and ideas. I'm going to have them do the things that I'm not comfortable taking on.

The R2R is working but with no playback. It may be alignment but it will need rebuilt. I'd appreciate the contact info for the guy who did yours.

Thanks again for your contact and for publishing your journey through this. My dad had one of these in his den when I was growing up. I've loved them ever since. I wish I had a clue what happened to that one.

lynnster1952 · by **lynnster1952** » Sat Jan 18, 2014 6:17 am

[quote=The R2R is working but with no playback. It may be alignment but it will need rebuilt. I'd appreciate the contact info for the guy who did yours.

Thanks again for your contact and for publishing your journey through this. My dad had one of these in his den when I was growing up. I've loved them ever since. I wish I had a clue what happened to that one.[/quote]

[color=#0040BF]Sorry but I didn't see your post about contact info! (I neglected to sign up for email notification to my posts!)[color=#0040BF]

Did you get your R2R working? If not, email me at Ilovescout52@yahoo.com & I'll give you contact info for my guy in Boston. He just fixed the motor on my Wollensak R2R that froze/died! So he's 3 for 3 with my R2R's!! I feel like I found gold when I discovered him..

Lynn[/color][/color]