I have a Supercoutmaster, and don't know what you guys are talking about. I had a 9 Sig that I changed to a 10.5i, and never had any problem with either of the counterweights. I suspect if you have to put any kind of muscle into it, something is wrong. As far as lubrication, VPI has a new grease for the platter bearing..its much better than the older stuff. It looks a lot like petroleum jelly, comes in a hypodermic needle - like package and really works. The motors are lubricated by (again) a VPI oil (thin) that is put by the rotating pins near the brass plate. Use the proper lubrication for a turntable that will give you great pleasure for ever. Call or write to VPI - they have always been most helpful to me.
VPI Super Scout Master questions/concerns
I purchased a used SSM table and have some concerns. Is the set screw in the counterweight a problem with others. I have to put some serious torque on the screw to get it to lock in place. In doing so it's difficult to keep the weight in position. This causes the setting to change, time and time again. This JMW9 is the Signature version. The counterweight came from the Original version arm. Are the counterweights the same? Have I got a defective counterweight? I would also like to know how to service the tables platter bearing & the flywheel bearing. How do you put oil/lube in the components? Thank you in adavance for your input.