Ferguson Videostar mechanisms (3V23 vs 3V29 vs 3V35)
 

Hi there. I have another VCR question. Are there any differences between the deck mechanism on these models? The JVC equivalents are 3V23=HR-7700, 3V29=HR-7200, 3V35=HR-D120. I was reading the service manuals for the models 7700 and D120 and I noticed that the 7700 has only one idler in the center and uses a direct-drive reel motor. The D120 has two idlers and its is belt driven. I have posted screenshots showing the differences. Can someone confirm that please?

Fivos

Re: Ferguson Videostar mechanisms (3V23 vs 3V29 vs 3V35)
 

They are all different mechanisms. Parts not interchangeable. The difference between the first and the last is about 5 years.

Re: Ferguson Videostar mechanisms (3V23 vs 3V29 vs 3V35)
 

The head drum is the same? My HR-3330 (Ferg. 3V00) looks like it has the same heads as the later models.

Re: Ferguson Videostar mechanisms (3V23 vs 3V29 vs 3V35)
 

Hi
As far as I know they are different, though there's no harm in seeing if that's the case. The earlier ones had a PCB and the later ones two small pillars for the wiring if I remember correctly. The drum itself was completely different .

Re: Ferguson Videostar mechanisms (3V23 vs 3V29 vs 3V35)
 

Does the 3V29 and the 3V30 have separate idler tires for FF/REW and playback/record?

Re: Ferguson Videostar mechanisms (3V23 vs 3V29 vs 3V35)
 

Yes - the large one between the spools is for FF/REW and the small clutch to the right of the take-up spool is for the take-up in play/record.

Re: Ferguson Videostar mechanisms (3V23 vs 3V29 vs 3V35)
 

The 3V23 doesn't seem to have the small take-up idler. Is that correct?

Re: Ferguson Videostar mechanisms (3V23 vs 3V29 vs 3V35)
 

Yes - the HR7700/3V23 was quite a different beast to the more basic 3V29 which used the capstan motor to drive the FF/REW idler and the take-up clutch. It was quite an up-market model and has many differences to the earlier and later machines.