Pioneer PL-8 with speed stability problems

[bratschist]

Good evening, everyone! I've been going down the forums, Google, and YouTube rabbit holes looking for an explanation of what could be ailing my PL-8.

Symptoms:
Quartz light seems to be slightly unstable (flickers)
Seems to intermittently lose speed stability
More occasionally, spins down completely to zero RPM (quartz light turns off)
Sounds like there is a quiet ticking noise coming from spindle/motor area

Ideas:
Perhaps it's a speed switch oxidation problem? (lots of references for this online, Deoxit on its way)
Maybe it's a lubrication issue? (Sewing machine oil on its way)
Ugh- Hopefully it's not an IC or motor failure developing?

Everything else seems to work fine. I bought this TT a few (3?) years ago and it mostly sat idle, so I don't have much historical context to add.

Also, I hear there is a superhero on this forum with disassembly instructions for the PL-x model lineup? I'd love a copy of that. And, if anyone has any similar experiences to what I've described above, I'd hugely appreciate it. I think I've probably read every historical thread at this point, but I'm sure there are other stories I've missed.

Once all my chemicals arrive and I have a free day to open everything up, I'll share what I learn and (hopefully) how I resolve it!

Thanks in advance!

 

[bkatbamna]

Take a look at the video.

 

[beej]

Based on your description of the issue the most likely cause is the speed switch oxidation that you alluded to. The PL-8 is kind of a 'twener' - a little more than a PL-7 but not quite a PL-9. The guide will get you where you need to go from a disassembly and reassembly perspective. Send an email to beej1123j@aol.com and I'll send along the guide and some tips on how best to address the speed fluctuation issue.

 

[bratschist]

Thanks so much! Private email has been sent to you, @beej . And, thanks @bkatbamna ! I did watch that video earlier and thought I could probably figure it out from the video, but since everyone raves about how great The Guide is, I should see about obtaining one myself.

I'm away for a few days but hope to get all the supplies in order to work on (and complete--fingers crossed) next week. Will update this space with results!

 

[beej]

Thanks so much! Private email has been sent to you, @beej . And, thanks @bkatbamna ! I did watch that video earlier and thought I could probably figure it out from the video, but since everyone raves about how great The Guide is, I should see about obtaining one myself.

I'm away for a few days but hope to get all the supplies in order to work on (and complete--fingers crossed) next week. Will update this space with results!

Responded to with the guide.