Dynavector 17D3 hitting clamp on VPI Scout

Thanks for the replies, folks. Lewm, I'm not positive, but I suspect that the problem will occur with most if not all records on my system. I only played a few before I realized what was happening, and since then I've either lifted the tonearm before the run-out grooves or played records without the clamp. I don't want to do any experiments that might cause damage. I checked the records I played, though, and the clamp doesn't extend over the run-out grooves. I checked a number of records by moving the tonearm by hand to the end of the playing surface (without actually playing the record) and it looks like the edge of the cart would impact the clamp in every case. The problem seems to be that the cart is wide enough that its sides extend beyond the playing surface.

I like the idea of grinding down the clamp, although I don't think it's going to work. I looked at the bottom of the thing and discovered that the surface is only about a quarter of an inch wide. If I ground it enough to give room for the cart I might destroy it.

I'd be open to using another clamp or weight or something. I'm very new to this so I'm not really sure what the options are. It looks like most of the clamps out there are for specific turntables.

Thanks for helping out a newbie!

Another newbie question.... do turntable mats perform some of the same functions as a clamp? Would a mat be a solution in my case?

Thanks for clarifying the mat issue. VPI is aware of the problem but I haven't heard anything from them yet. I'm trying to do some self-education in the meantime.

I did a bit more research and found a product--the Rek-O-Kut Disc Stabilizer--that was specifically designed for the problem of record clamps hitting the cartridge. It's a lot narrower than the VPI clamp that came with my Scout--2-5/16 inches vs. 3-1/2 inches. It's a weight and not a screw-down clamp.

I'm wondering if this product would be appropriate for my Scout. If so, would I use it in conjunction with the washer that VPI supplies for use under the record?

I really appreciate the help that you're all offering. I'm learning a lot here.

I did a little more research and found the KAB Record Grip Mark II, which is a clamp and not a weight, with a diameter of 3", a half-inch less than the VPI clamp. That extra space might be enough clearance for the 17D3.

Thanks again to everyone for all your help!

Dan, I wish I had your patience and mechanical skill. If I attempted a project like that, I'd either cut off a finger or burn down the house. I'm afraid I'm stuck with commercial solutions for now.

On the subject of weights and possible damage to the platter bearing, I see that VPI makes a weight for its own tables. I assume that means that the Scout could bear the extra weight with no problem.

Problem solved. I upgraded the 17D3 to a DV XX2 which has a narrower body.