VPI rim drive new feet

Stringreen,
I've been using the soft footers from VPI for a few weeks now and I agree they work quite well. I do wish they weren't quite so high as they required me to raise the table more than I like. The mini feet do make this easier and the table is still solid. Did you find the threading on the new feet to be somewhat smaller than on the old feet? At first mine didn't seem like they were going to tighten but then caught hold during the last few turns. Since they originally were made for another table they may not be the ultimate solution but I agree they do work well. I'm anxious to try the softer drive belt as well but it sounds like it may be fall or latter before that's available.

Sonofjim...Hi - actually, when I measured the new feet they are exactly the same size as the metal feet that came originally with the motor assembly..also, they fit exactly where the screw came out. It sounds as though the feet I got are a later version than yours. The footers are a soft gummy rubber compound.

We may have different model years because my motor assembly originally had firm rubber feet, not metal. These original feet were about 1/4" high whereas the new ones are about 1/2" high. How high are the feet they sent you?

The old feet are made of cast steel that measures exactly 1/2 inch. They are held on to the unit with countersunk Phillips heads screws that are 1 inch. The screw heads when installed are covered by the use of a thin blue gummed label-like disc.

Looks like we have the same feet but slightly different motor housing units. That explains the differnces I encountered. Luckily they still work fine for me. Happy listening.

Sonofjim,
What is this "softer drive belt" you refer to?

Mred,
When I talked to Mike at VPI a few weeks ago concerning the rim drive he offered to send me the softer feet which he did. He also mentioned that they were working on a proprietory drive belt for the rim drive made of softer material which should provide smoother more forgiving drive. One of the reasons the rim drive needs to "settle in" is the belt smooths out with use. Presumably, the softer material should be less dependent on this. He said this may take a couple months to develop. This is my understanding of what he said at the time. If you want more information, give Mike a call at VPI(or e-mail). I'm sure he'd be happy to give you an update.

I can confirm what Sonofjim is saying. I have had the new Rim Drive for only 6 weeks - (ordered that way , not an upgrade) & even though it has soft black rubber feet, Mike at VPI said he is sending me another set - sounds like they're constantly modifying. He also confirmed a new rubber belt for the Rim drive will be available at the end of the Summer