Hi.

I have two DAT drives (Python mechanisms as I recall), and one streaming ("OnStream") tape drive. In all cases, when I place the cleaning cartridge in, the drive firmware recognizes the special cartridge, moves the cleaning tape across the heads, and that's it. You may be able to tell from the amount of cleaning tape on the spool (if you have a transparent cartridge).

I don't know what you mean by "engage the heads".

When all else fails, read the manual.

If you need to post more, provide the make and model, perhaps someone will recognize the drive ... cheers, drl