Haven't tried oregonpapa's adjustment, but I have a VPI 16.5 and was surprised when I cracked one tube the second month I was using the machine. I always remove the tube before closing the lid, so it wasn't that, it just cracked in normal use, and suddenly I wasn't getting proper vacuum. I have another tube I use, but I taped the broken one up and am still using it occasionally to clean moldy records, just need to replace the tape every so often as it comes unstuck with the moisture. Looking at the way the tube is made it seems like it's a weak point in the design. Conspiracy theories aside, I'm sure VPI is quite happy selling $30 replacements, or you can spend $70 and buy their stronger Delrin tube..
Cracked record cleaning pick up tube
I have owned a VPI 16.5 recording cleaning machine for about 1 year. It has generally worked quite well, except for on two occasions, the pickup tube has cracked in the compression fit slot area.
My early speculation is that the issue may relate to the use of steam cleaning with simultaneous vacuum pickup. The pickup tube may thermally expand and subsequently crack within the compression fitting. I usually steam as one step in the cleaning process and I have been careful to minimize localized heating for fear of record warping. Thus, I am surprised if the tube would warm enough to crack.
Has anyone else had this mishap? Any alternative thoughts on the cause for the cracked pickup tube - they are not cheap!
My early speculation is that the issue may relate to the use of steam cleaning with simultaneous vacuum pickup. The pickup tube may thermally expand and subsequently crack within the compression fitting. I usually steam as one step in the cleaning process and I have been careful to minimize localized heating for fear of record warping. Thus, I am surprised if the tube would warm enough to crack.
Has anyone else had this mishap? Any alternative thoughts on the cause for the cracked pickup tube - they are not cheap!