Garrard 401 service & tweaking my new project.

Hello Phduncason, I did not mean to imply you need a new platter. The 50 Hz platter works fine, the strobe function just doesn't work, due to the frequency mismatch.

Some with money to spend, and are perfectionists, will seek out a 60 Hz platter, just so everything is just so. I can't afford to be one of those people, and use an inexpensive KeyStrobe speed checking system which works well for me.

To each his own.

Regards,
Dan

No worries islandman. I did not take it that way ~ I just know for me, that I like things to be functional ~

I just got a chance to open and look at the 401. It is super clean (except for dust) ~ even the break pad is still close to off white. Only noticed that one of the motor springs is a bit stretched ~ looks like I only need to clean and oil this!!

Any recommendations for spindle & motor oil?

I highly recommend the following lubricants for your 401 project:

1. motor bearings: ZOOM SPOUT TURBINE OIL (http://amzn.to/1IDrnYc)

2. spindle: Mobil Rarus 427 Air Compressor Oil (SAE Grade 30, Viscosity Index 100, Viscosity SUS @ 100 Degrees) This matches the spec required by Oilite for their sintered bronze bearing products and contains no detergents that would clog the pores of the bearings preventing them from self lubricating (http://amzn.to/1TeTyjp)

3. idler wheel bushes: Singer sewing machine oil (http://amzn.to/1dGv1DD)

Phduncanson,

I'm glad to hear you've gotten a very good example of a 401. For spindle bearing oil, I use that which is sold by Northwest Analog in the UK.

I also use sewing machine oil for the idler bearings.

How long do you anticipate it will be before you get to hear it for the first time?

Best regards,
Dan

Phduncanson,

My Garrard 401 has been completely restored by Christopher Thornton at Artisan Fidelity and I couldn't be more pleased with the quality of both the parts/components and the work he has performed.

With regards to the Artisan Fidelity replacement idler wheel, it's really a no brainer! When you get a chance to hold the AF wheel you can truly appreciate the quality and of course, the sonic improvements are not subtle. More clarity, better image focus, an enhancement of the drive in the music that these tables are known for.

I know that Artisan Fidelity is continually researching and testing components and I believe that there is an upgraded version of the AF idler wheel in the works. Better ask Christopher though!

Any questions feel free to shoot me an email.

Cheers,

Tim