Tube Echoplex question

[Vsat]

Have a garage sale EP-2 Echoplex here... electronics are working now, but the tension spring that presses the felt pad against the tape is missing... anyone have any hints on how to make a replacement spring?
Cheers, Mike

[Rodgre]

The actual designer of the Echoplex still services them and can probably provide you with parts. Do a web search for Echoplex and see what you find.

Or have a friend press the tape against the felt for you while you play

Roger

[WGTP]

I just ordered a new cartridge from Mike Battle and it includes a the part your talking about, or you can buy it seperate for $3.  

http://www.tubeplex.com/vintageshop.html

[petemoore]

I had a long conversation with Mike back in the early 80's, at his shop on E. Market St. Akron Ohio. Don't get him started on the Gibson Maestro / Battles relationship..[outch].
 A very nice guy and proud of his very popular creation, and it's many fans / followers, bitter about the deal the was wrote on it. I'm pretty sure if you contact him, he'll be able to help you out...I always wanted to have one of those...and a Big Box of new tapes...'Joe had one, it was always in use on stage or by the mixer...[ran it for years, needed serviced once or twice in that time].

[Vsat]

Guys, big thanks!

Saw the name "Don Dixon" come up while I was googling, nice to hear he's still busy with these. Tapes pretty worn in this one, might try making a new loop or else order a new cartridge.

WGTP: what is the flat spring actually made out of? Is it a thin piece of metal, or plastic or...?
Cheers, Mike

[Rodgre]

And by the way, before you ask, it's not the same Don Dixon as the producer who did the REM stuff...

Roger

[WGTP]

It looks like copper.  It will bend and straighten back out.  The end is shaped to go around the stud under the tape casette.  Not much presure on the tape.  I understand the tape casette usually comes with a new one.  I guess you can load your own tape into one, or some places will re-tape them for you for $10.  I'm sure good tape will help the sound.    

[Vsat]

Thanks a lot WGTP! If the metal is both springy and copper-colored, might be phosphor-bronze.
Cheers, Mike

[WGTP]

I got it right here.  It is about 4" long, prior to the U shape being added at the end to go around the stud that holds the cassette in place.  The felt is 3/4" long  mounted at the end opposite the U.  Width is 1/4" as is the felt thickness.  Probably any springey metal that will hold the felt to the roller will work.  Hope that helps.  

Cool machine and the tube ones are worth a bunch.  Try moving the delay length lever while it is echoing.  You can play this thing like a synth.

[Vsat]

Thanks again WGTP! Got some sticky-backed felt here, gonna give it a try  
Regards, Mike