Re: Crippled Disk ][ Problem

[valthoff@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu (Victoria M Althoff)]

Technically, the recalibrate maneuver pulls the head back something like 84 
steps, which would be 42 tracks--which normally guarantees that the head will 
land at the zero position.

In any case, I have seen that problem.  It used to be quite common on ][+'es in
my school, and it happened to my ][e about a week ago.  The most common symptom
is that the recalibration buzz doesn't sound quite right.  And the first fix is
to give the drive a firm swat on the top as the recalibration begins.  Yes, 
that's right, I said to HIT IT.  Most of the time, it works.  I wouldn't worry 
too much about the drive unless the problem recurs.  I think the problem is 
caused by a combination of shipping shock, cold weather, and disuse...so when 
you press the drive into regular service, it frees up and works fine.

Now, if the drive starts squeaking as the head moves track-to-track, you may 
want to consider a light lubricant on the guide rails.

--Dave Althoff, Jr.