Need Help With Set-Up of Yamaha YP-D71


I just picked up a YP-D71 in excellent condition (although no dustcover). I went to align the cart, balance the arm, and set VTA, but discovered that on this model the arm cannot be lowered to the platter unless the platter is spinning. Can't use a protractor that way!

Someone on another site suggested I get the unit running, lower the cart, and then unplug the table. That reminded me of how I used to do it in high school some time last millenium. I thought it would solve my problem.

I just discovered that as soon as the plug is pulled the auto-lift feature raises the arm, even though there's no power at that moment.

Am I stuck having to balance by the 0 gram, hover technique?

Help please.
winegasman