Hp-41C card reader - dead

[Dreato]

This has been my experience with both the 67/97 and 41C card readers:

1) I check the worm gear placement on the shaft - it should have a bit of 'play' before it contacts the brass bearing at the end away from the motor.
2) I mark this location on the motor shaft, remove the worm gear and glue it to the motor shaft with cyanoacrylate glue.
3) A tiny bit of lubricant on the worm gear tip reduces motor noise considerably.
4) Card won't pull? The 41C card reader uses both optical and mechanical switches for card control. The card inserted switch is mechanical. If fresh batteries don't pull a card, you need to check the mechanical switches. Carefully clean them and test card inserted actuation with an ohm meter. I don't recall, but I don't think switch contact is adjustable, like on the 67/97. If, when a card is inserted, you don't see the contact closure with an ohm meter, you may need to remove the switch leaves, and bend them slightly. CAREFUL!

Anyone else?

Good luck and Best Regards,

Dave