Hello Richard,
If the LoL causes the tape to squeal in the transport, let me remind
you of a procedure that works on open reel tapes (which is sort of
what your cassette tape is after you lift the pressure pad):
Stick-slip ("Stiction") is a function of the tape speed -- the slower
the tape goes, the more squeal there will be, and vice versa. So if
you have one of the cassette players that goes double speed (3.75
in/s), there is a chance that the tape will run without squealing.
Then use an open-reel machine or a computer to bring it back to speed
and pitch.
Or maybe you do this already?