SOTA Sapphire speed issue


Hi, Gang,

I have a SOTA Sapphire turntable that I bought new in the late 1980's. it was sent back to SOTA for a refresh several years ago. They inspected it, replaced the suspension springs and put in a new bearing. 
The table is now having speed problems. It can take literally 4 or 5 minutes to spin fully up to speed. 
Have any of you seen this on your own SOTA table? Any ideas? I'd love to avoid the time and expense of shipping this beast back to SOTA if I can. 
Thanks in advance. 
rebbi

Showing 2 responses by regafan

You should be able to remove the protective cover that houses the 33\45 switch, the on\off switch, and the speed adjustment. With that cover off determine if the belt has been installed inside out. The grippy side could be on the outside and the non-grippy side is thoroughly warn. I did this once, although my speed issues were not nearly as severe.

With cover off you should be able to observe the driver pulley. If this is slow then you have a problem. I would make these observations and contact a good SOTA dealer or SOTA themselves. I have always found Donna at SOTA an easy person to speak to. If you e-mail SOTA, I have found them very responsive.

Good luck.