*The following is likely to be almost identical for the KE-83 KBM, the 4 channel version of this 2 channel KE-81 KBM radio.

Important Radio Security Code Considerations:

Cassette Mechanism Belt Issue:
Over time, the original factory cassette belts degrade into a soft, mushy substance. Attempting to operate the cassette mechanism in this state will cause the belt to snap. This issue directly impacts the radio security code function: if the cassette belt is broken, when entering the security code, the system will beep, attempt to run the cassette motor, but remain stuck displaying “CODE” without progressing. The radio cannot accept the security code unless the cassette mechanism is operational.

LCD Display and Backlight Power Requirement:
When bench testing, ensure both the memory and backlight power lines have 12 volts supplied. The LCD screen will not illuminate to display the prompt for entering the security code unless both these wires are powered.

Belt details (3 Belts total):

Circumference: 23cm / 9 inch square belt 1mm thick; SCY8.83 or SCY9.
SCY1.2 or 10mm ID 1mm thick (12mm OD) o-rings Qty 2.

LCD bulb details:

3mm 9v 70ma Qty 3 (can be bought easily from places like Aliexpress)

Repair manual:

Download (PDF, Unknown)

Follow the instructions on page 4 to remove the cassette assembly and faceplate in order to perform the LCD bulb replacement according to the instructions below:

Bulb replacement:

After removing the face plate. Remove this single Philips screw to then pull up and remove the LCD circuit board assembly. The only things holding the whole assembly in place is the single screw (green circle) and the plug (orange circle).

Once the assembly is removed, you need to detach the metal bezel, which separates together with the LCD. To perform this separation you will need to unbend 4 tabs, and remove the solder that holds them in place.

I highly recommend using an electric desoldering pump, or at least good quality copper wick.

Just go slow and gentle, the plastic behind the metal cover can be fragile and so its worth spending the extra time making sure the tabs are perfectly straight and not over forcing anything.

The bulbs have rubber sleeves, simply remove these sleeves and place on your new bulbs before soldering in the new bulbs.

Reassembly in reverse.

Radio belt replacement:

After removing the top cover, the 4 screws holding in the cassette assembly, and unplugging the connector (all indicated on page 4) continue with these steps to change the belts:

Remove these screws:

To remove the old goopy belt, use isopropyl alcohol of high concentration and cotton swabs; the IA will soften the goop to aid in removal. Route new belt as shown:

To access the two other belts, remove these two screws:

Then these two:

As you lift up on that assembly, gently unhinge here:

After removing the old belts, pop the plastic rollers out by prying with a screw driver (gently).

Again on the other side:

When reassembling, make sure the cable is tucked behind the mounting screw.

Reassemble in reverse.

This entry was posted on May 29, 2025 at 11:38 pm and is filed under Do it Yourself. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.