Due to the small size and thinness of Video8/Hi-8 tape I have created a 3rd spindle (will be a different color than black) that will freely spin on the motor shaft thereby reducing tension so that in the event your tape is badly degraded, or you just prefer to not chance it, then you can use this spindle to clean your V8/H8 tape with. You should put this spindle on the feeding motor when cleaning. The downside to using it is you will have to swap spindles if you change direction of cleaning but it is safer than using both standard V8/H8 spindles that will both turn the shafts.
The motors I use are gear driven motors (necessary for proper power and tension for the majority of media types we clean) and contain a certain amount of backtension even when not powered. This is why the free spin spindle helps with V8/H8 tapes as it does not turn the motor shaft simply spins on top of it as the tape is being pulled.
No matter which spindle combination you use I always recommend going slow, using isopropyl not only for cleaning but for lubrication, and utilizing the lower cleaning post primarily as it is the post that cleans the side which contains the recording.
Here is the link to a Youtube video I made for the DV spindle set which operates the same way. Please watch it for more detailed information: DV Spindle Youtube Video
As always, if you are confused or have questions please send a message on the contact form or to my email.
