MCM_Fan
AK Subscriber
The problem with the Mk2 models is the cueing mechanism, which is prone to failure.
The plain, original SL-1500 is probably the easiest table to service that I have ever worked on. With completely manual operation, there are very few moving parts. Very little to service and what there is is very easy to get to with minimal disassembly/re-assembly. Once serviced, it is also dead quiet. The tonearm is also easily swapped, if you ever want to upgrade to a higher performance arm. About the only other potential upgrade is to pack that plastic bottom with some non-hardening clay to deaden any potential resonances.
I sold one a few months ago, that was in near mint condition, that I had purchased from the original owner. It was nearly 45 years old and had never been serviced. No problem. About an hour later, it was working like new. The only reason I sold it is because I prefer a semi-auto. In hindsight, I kinda wish I'd kept it. I sold it for below market value to a co-worker, but it wasn't the money I regret. It was just a bone simple table that is about as reliable as you can get in a vintage direct drive turntable. It will be hard to find another in such spotless condition without paying a huge premium.