Sony Betamax SL-8000 checking head alignment

While getting the SL-8000 working after deep storage for 5 years I thought i'd check the head alignment on the video head i replaced 10 years ago.
I had noticed some line tearing while running and I wanted to check the head alignment before going on to the dihedral alignment of the video head chips.

[@nathen4021]

You probably can move the eccentricity gauge closer to the head disk where the tip is in contact when you spin the disk along with zeroing out the dial to get an accurate reading. I can just tell that it is off a little. Which would cause the picture "warbling" issue.

[@CanonPanasonic-ProUser]

As far as i now you use the original adjustment tool for centre the videohead. Did it a lot on SL-8000/8080, C5, C6 and C7. From C20 to HF950ES the videoheads had an another design. No centre adjustment needed, happened automatically.

[@bobsbits5357]

hi you have to use the same head line up on betacam as well

[@zero0ryn]

Is your TV on the VCR channel? IE flywheel sync disabled?

[@ResurrectionRetro]

Turned out the issue was down to head alignment issue. The head chips were not 180 degree apart. Used a tapered screw to gently adjust one of the heads. Took quite a few attemps ot adjust then play, adjust then play. Got it playing very nicely.

[@metingokbulut837]

🇹🇷🇹🇷🇹🇷🇹🇷💯💯💯💯👍👍👍👍

[@azshaw123]

I had the same issue and went down the same road and it turned out to be the capstan belt....It was rock steady after replacement.