Using same tapes between cameras
 

This past summer I shot a documentary on my GL2 using sony tapes and now it's time for the logging process. I am going to use my Canon ZR70 to playback the footage. I though it would be smart to run a head cleaner on the ZR70 since I have used different tape brands in that cam before. But if I do not use a head cleaner before running the sony tapes and I eventually return the tapes to the GL2, will the tapes damage my GL2? Will they transfer anything that was left on the ZR70's heads to the GL2's heads?

I wouldn't have put myself into that position, being a Fujiman. Just try it, cross your fingers and hope for the best. Maybe you'll get lucky.

How much damage do head cleaners do?
 

From everything I've read and heard here and elsewhere I think most people would agree with Frank. This kind of practice is best avoided.

When I didn't know any better, I used to just buy whatever tape I could find and swap them around between two different cameras and I had a lot of problems. Now, I just Panasonic and everything in the garden is rosie.

Can anyone elaborate on how much damage tape head cleaners do? I get the feeling people think they should be used sparingly but I'm not sure why.

Head cleaners wear done the heads. Head cleaners in VCRs do the same thing. They're ment for a quick fix. See Tom's instructions on how to clean cam heads the correct way:

http://www.dvfreak.com/tape.htm

Thanks Frank
 

That was a really interesting link which I've not seen b4

I like everything about it except the use of foam swabs on tape heads.

The open cells of the foam can catch an edge of the head.

Chamois-tipped swabs are the proper tool for the heads.