Sony TC-377 Motor Oil

[Mrnoname]

Hi All,

I am currently working my way through a TC-377 that I have acquired in a semi-assembled state. The motor feels ok, but stiffer than I would like.

I know from reading around that oil for these types of motors is a contentious subject, with some saying Singer sewing machine oil is a good choice, and others saying nothing but watch oil is suitable. From reading I know that 3-in-1 is definitely a bad idea

What are peoples opinions on suitable oils for a R2R motor like this? Also how much? There are two oil holes I can see, one on the front, one on the rear. They do not look designed for gallons of the stuff.

I reside in the UK so that may limit my purchase options somewhat.


Regards,
Max.

 

[audiojones]

Singer sewing machine oil is ok, but I like using synthetic oil with the needle applicator. It’s very good oil for this sort of thing and the needle applicator makes it easy to feed multiple drops into the holes on Sony motors (and absolutely ideal for the little clear tubes on TEAC motors and the like). This stuff

 

[gadget73]

I used an ISO46 hydraulic oil on my TC-777, mostly because I have it and it was in the needle oiler. Its the oil my turntable wants in the main bearing, I have a bucket of it at work, and its a good general purpose light oil for things like this.


if it has oil holes, give it a few drops and spin the motor a bit. Maybe give it a few more and call it a day. The oil is meant to soak into a bit of felt, and it doesn't have a lot of capacity.