Patrick Hogan wrote:
Hi group,

I'm trying to fix an old 8-track deck. The rubber pulley belt that the
motor uses to drive the flywheel has turned into black sticky treacle
and is stuck all round the flywheel and motor shaft!

Is there anything that I can use to clean this treacle off? It's
extremely sticky and has turned my fingers black :-) If I try to wipe
it, it just spreads further - I need to remove it all before putting a
new belt on.

Any tips gratefully received.

i used to start by adding talcum powder to solidify the goop a little,
then scoop it off with a spatula or whatever. after removing as much as
poss, wipe down with alcohol. pay special attention to grooves in
pulleys which can retain the goop.
-b.