Technics SL-1300Mk2 Auto Return Problem

[Dave Sanders]

I just replaced the infamous cue lift arm in my Technics SL-1300Mk2. All functions work correctly except for the “Auto Return”; the Auto Return Switch is in the correct position. Activating the “Stop” button causes the tone to lift and return to the home position and the motor shuts off. All functions associated with the different size records work OK. If I manually move the tone arm rapidly towards the center of the spindle the Auto Return” activates and the rest of the cycle is normal. Any suggestions on where to start the troubleshooting will be appreciated.

 

[rrres]

...If I manually move the tone arm rapidly towards the center of the spindle the Auto Return” activates and the rest of the cycle is normal...

Try manually moving the tonearm again but not rapidly. Move it towards the center slowly, at about the same speed as if it's at the runout groove. Then note the position of the tonearm where the auto-retun is triggered.

 

[damacman]

Correct, There is an adjustment for that right next to the arm and the pots often require cleaning.

Great tt. I had to step up to a VPI Avenger to retire mine. The DV10x5 is a match made in heaven.

 

[Dave Sanders]

Try manually moving the tonearm again but not rapidly. Move it towards the center slowly, at about the same speed as if it's at the runout groove. Then note the position of the tonearm where the auto-retun is triggered.

I have tried moving the tonearm towards the spindle at a rate similar to the run-out groves. Most of the time the Auto Return does not activate. However, when it does the tonearm is at its maximum travel towards the spindle. I have tried to adjust the “Tonearm return adjust screw” to the max and min positions but it makes no difference.

 

[Dave Sanders]

I took the tonearm apart and adjusted the gap on the optical sensor to make the metal swing arm closer to the optical sensor. I also cleaned both VR501/502 and made trail and error adjustments on VR501 and was able to finally get the Auto-return function to work correctly. I very impressed with the quality and performance of this vintage TT. Thanks for all the help.

 

[SaSi]

She is a beauty, isn't she?
Have you checked the suspension spring tension? With time the tend to sag and sometimes to the point they touch down. Makes a difference when the springs are properly adjusted.

 

[Dave Sanders]

She is a beauty, isn't she?
Have you checked the suspension spring tension? With time the tend to sag and sometimes to the point they touch down. Makes a difference when the springs are properly adjusted.

They appeared to be OK but I did not disassemble to verify the condition of the rubber bushing. Do you know where to find out how to adjust them?