Seeking JVC HR-S3500U head cleaning advice

[elpablo1]

I picked up a used JVC HR-S3500U with TBC and there isn't evidence of really dirty heads during playback but I was wondering if the quality could improve after cleaning? I did a search and didn't discover a service manual but have some experience reparing electronics. Is this something that may be pretty straight forward? Any info is appreciated, thanks!

[elpablo1]

Can anyone comment on this? Is head cleaning on this unit relatively simple or is it risky? Thanks!

[sanlyn]

There are a few things that make it risky. The following are especially risky:

- Taking the word of clueless accidents-in-the-making who insist that it's OK to use cotton swabs to clean VCR heads.

- Using drug-store rubbing alcohol to clean VCR heads and parts.

- Using head cleaning tapes. I know that some people say they're OK now and then. I used one of those tapes only once, after which the video head replacement from the damage cost $196.00. Don't use the damn cleaning tapes, no matter who says you can. Besides, those heads were available 15 years ago. Forget about it today.

Google and the forum search utility are your friends:
http://www.digitalfaq.com/forum/vide...html#post21870
http://hometheater.about.com/cs/vcrs...eadcleaing.htm

Stuff for proper cleaning:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A6ZC09I...BNWG35HP6Y8EAX

https://www.amazon.com/MG-Chemicals-...XAK8N026B4J1JG

[elpablo1]

Thanks for the info Sanlyn! I did a search for the model I own and didn't find anything so it's good to know it's like the other one you noted. I'm not sure if there is a benefit to cleaning heads unless they are really dirty but will do more follow the links you provided and do more research. Thanks again!