How do I fix the static, crackling, buzzing sound when I play a tape in my MercuryCougar's radio/tape player?

Question

This is the original factory radio/tape player as installed when my Mercury Cougar was new in 1993. The radio plays perfectly with no static crackling, or buzzing sound. Only the tape player emits this noise. It also makes the same noise when I use a cassette converter to input my MP3 player. The static increases in intensity and rapidity during louder passages. When the volume is turned low there is a click about once a second. Turning up the volume shortens the time interval producing a buzzing sound.

Answer 1

I thought it was just becuase tapes are crappy quality compared to cds. but yeah sounds like a dirty deck. considering it's 14 years old... a cleaning kit would probably do it some good... if not, just go out and but a cheap cd deck for $80.

Answer 2

This is usually due to a faulty static resistor,, yest it can be fixed but really dude just buy a new head deck and a new set of speakers, spend at least $200

Answer 3

buy a new deck your tape heads r worn out just like a vcr

Answer 4

Might help to clean the heads.