Service Evaluation Report – Kenwood X‑ME5 / A‑E5
During initial inspection, both the CD changer (X‑ME5) and cassette transport (A‑E5) show clear evidence of prior disassembly and improper reassembly.
This has affected the alignment, hardware integrity, and likely mechanical synchronization of both systems.
The following findings and recommendations outline the current condition, risks, and next steps required for potential restoration.
Technician Findings
- Multiple screws were missing, mismatched, or installed in incorrect locations.
- Several screws were found attached to the CD stabilizer magnet inside the changer assembly.
- CD mechanism gears were misaligned and out of timing sequence, suggesting forced disc removal.
- Cassette mechanism exhibits similar issues — mounting points loose, belt path misrouted, and linkage misaligned.
- Optical pickup and tray sensors may be out of calibration due to previous tampering.
- Power supply and audio sections appear physically intact but unverified electrically pending mechanical correction.
Assessment
Both mechanisms have been partially disassembled and reassembled incorrectly. Due to this, it cannot be guaranteed that normal operation can be restored without full teardown and realignment.
Mechanical timing marks for the CD elevator and cassette linkages must be re-established according to the service manual.
Hardware substitution (wrong screws) may have caused thread damage or misalignment in chassis mounts.
Recommendations
- Perform full mechanical teardown and correct reassembly of both CD and cassette transport mechanisms.
- Inspect all plastic gears, posts, and linkages for cracks or warping.
- Replace missing or incorrect hardware with proper Kenwood-spec screws.
- Re-time CD changer gears and realign elevator mechanism using factory reference marks.
- Reinstall and test cassette belt path, capstan motor drive, and transport linkages.
- Verify and recalibrate optical pickup focus and tracking once mechanics are functional.
- Bench-test amplifier, tuner, and power supply after confirming transport stability.
Service Disclaimer
Because this unit has been previously tampered with, full operational recovery cannot be guaranteed.
Some internal parts may be damaged beyond repair or require donor mechanisms. If restoration proceeds,
additional labor time will be required for alignment, testing, and validation of mechanical reliability.
Estimated Restoration Cost
Note: This estimate represents a worst-case scenario based on current visible conditions. I have sources actively looking for parts specific to this model. These units are uncommon, so the repair process will be approached slowly and methodically to ensure proper restoration.
| Work Description | Est. Labor Hours | Rate | Subtotal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full mechanical teardown and reassembly (CD & cassette mechanisms) | 4.5 hr | $85/hr | $382.50 |
| Gear alignment, belt replacement, and mechanical calibration | 2 hr | $85/hr | $170.00 |
| Electrical inspection, audio testing, and optical calibration | 1.5 hr | $85/hr | $127.50 |
| Hardware replacement (correct screws, belts, lubricants, misc. materials) | — | — | $45.00 |
| Estimated Total (before tax) | $725.00 | ||
Notes:
- If either transport is found to have cracked or deformed gears, additional donor parts may be required (quoted separately).
- Labor time may increase depending on the extent of mechanical correction needed after reassembly.
- Estimate covers mechanical and electrical restoration only; cosmetic work (cleaning, polishing, refinishing) not included.