Pioneer PL-71 Tomearm Rocking

[dmira]

Hey everyone,

The tonearm on my PL-71 has seemed to have gotten loose overtime and is now that the point where the whole tonearm has play in it, and can be rocked and tilted side to side. Now, the base of the tonearm isn't loose, it's the tonearm/yoke it self. This has caused problems in playback, making the tracking force of the cartridge inconsistent changing constantly.

Does anyone know how I can somehow tighten/fix this?

I can't find any replacement tonearms online (tt is 50 years old) and don't want to give up on it. I've also taken off the side caps on the gimbal that reveal a flat head screw, but was unable to loosen or tighten it and did not want to force it.

The service manual for the PL-71 just lists the tonearm as one part, and doesn't get into the specifics of it's assembly, so no luck there.

I've attached a video of the rocking, as well as the flat head screw slot with the cap removed.

Link to video : https://youtube.com/shorts/XnQJ1-xh0b8?feature=share

Any insight is appreciated.

 

[loudnoises]

That screw is locked in place by the outer ring. You'll need to first loosen that before you can adjust the bearing. Sometimes a security bit will fit. Sometimes the pivot screw stays locked with the ring, you'll need to free it after cracking the nut. Just barely loosen it is all you need. Watch the position of the screw so you know how much you've adjusted it. It's a fine line between correct and too tight. If you find it needed a lot of adjustment, you may wish to split this between the two sides of the arm.

If you are sure the horizontal bearings are where the play is, then this might be the correct remedy. I do not know this arm or table so you may want to wait for a second opinion.

You may also take this moment to inspect the bearings, some have been found to corrode. but be very careful resetting as the pin will catch the wrong part of the bearing race.