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Technics SL-1210 - Spring streching noise when lowering/raising tone arm lift

T

Tumus88

New Member
Recently I bought a Technics SL-1210 that apparently was in very good condition. Everything seems to work fine, except for the fact that when the tone arm is lowered or raised, a ''spring stretching" noise comes from the tone arm lift.

This sound lasts for as long as the tone arm lift is lowered/raised. I tried to adjust the screw on top of the tone arm lift but this did not seem to have any effect.

My question is if someone already encountered this problem, and what the solution for this could be?

Thank you in advance for the help!
 
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Never had this problem with my 1210 but there are only two springs in the cue mechanism. One is easily accessible from the top of the deck and is located under the cue bar pillar and released via a visible flat screw facing the top of the deck. You could open it up and release it / clean it / re-position it. The other is located at the tonearm assembly and is a PITA to get to b/c you will need to remove the turntable bottom armor to get there. Once the tonearm assembly cover plate is removed, that spring is visible under a retaining "Ë" clip. You can then give it the same treatment and hopefully get rid of the noise.
 
I wonder if it is just some friction at the cue arm itself? Can you feel anything as you operate the lever?
 
I would remove the stuff tnsilver describes (it is very easy) and remove the spring from above. Then work the cue lever and see if you still hear the noise. Don't lose the spring under the cue bar, not sure you can get a replacement.
 
Is this spring playing with your ability to properly set the tracking weight? What is your turntable/ mechanical background?

I have never enjoyed messing with springs. I have done basic repairs on a couple of turntables, and more than once I have felt that a spring had been better off before I removed/ reinstalled it. They are small, easily munched at the ends, and require a level of finesse I seem to lack.

Regardless, I would find the best fix to be one where I didn't have to remove a spring -- especially if it is not interfering with your ability to set tracking weight/ function of your tonearm. Observe them through the movement and see if there is something easily addressed.

I own a 1200 mk2, though I have not had a problem like this so only have theoretical advice.
 
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