Funny, I didn't hear an 8-track until the early 90s, at least I don't think so. Lots of players and tapes to be had, just make sure to get a player in which the head isn't held in place by plastic with a set screw in the top, the plastic would often fatigue-crack. As for the tapes, their common ills are easily fixed. Lots of repair stuff available from Kate's Track Shack. The foil needed for the splices can probably be found at your local hardware store.
Not many appreciate these, so have at it, it would be good to hear of another "catching the bug".
