RARE! 3M M23 1968 1" 8 track Tape Recorder (Beatles White Album) Local Pickup

1968 3M M23 1" 8 track recorder (The recorder that made its first appearance on The Beatles White Album). Not record-ready, needs some TLC and work. Located in Denver Colorado. Includes tons of spare parts, newly relapped head, extra heads, test tape (SM studio master EQ), belt drive mod kit, manual (WITH SCHEMATICS!) field service bulletins. I have the main 3M logo available too, (pictured here without it), it was just removed to clean and hasn't been reapplied. Everything is so big and accessible, it's pretty easy to work on. I have had detailed conversations with the main 3M engineer behind this recorder, Dale Manquen, as well as Jay McKnight regarding servicing, mods, notes etc. I'll provide that info to you as well.

Tape path opto-sensor has stopped working the last time I fired this up (that senses when a tape is present in the tape-path to turn the capstan/motors off when you don't have a tape on the deck.

Unit fired up and all motors worked the last time I used it.

Switches, rubber parts, plastic connectors etc are drying out and becoming brittle, stiff and fragile after 50 years, so those items will need TLC and reconditioning here and there.

All cards are present, one rack channel is pictured without the 7/9 Overdub card, but I have it, it was removed for repair.
Unit has always been stored covered in a climate controlled environment.
I do no have power available at it's current storage space to test and diagnose, currently.
This is a project piece for a technician or engineer with electronic and soldering skills (someone able to fix amps, pedals and knows how to use and calibrate a tape machine), please bid accordingly.

I just don't have time to work on this or the room to store it anymore, otherwise I'd get everything running and use it or ask for a higher price.

Please don't make me ship this piece of history that is the size of a refrigerator. I will gladly help you load it into your truck. 2 or 3 persons and a lift gate preferred, it should travel upright.