• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Technics SL-5 Record Size Sensor

David_NC

David_NC

Super Member
After relocating across the US to California, I finally got my SL-5 set up. It's been working fine for a couple weeks now. All it needed was a good cleaning (the exterior had stickers on it), and I replaced the A-T stylus. Over the weekend, I received several albums as birthday gifts, so I naturally had to play them. When I did, I noticed a new sound - an intermittent scraping. I've determined that the record size sensor is hitting the outer edge of the record. It appears that this sensor extends when the cover closes and then normally retracts back in after touching the edge of the record (12") or not touching the edge (7"). The issue is that mine isn't retracting back. Is this something that can be resolved by disassembly and cleaning / lubing parts, or is it likely a bit more involved? Any idea or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
 
Register to hide this ad
Nobody? I guess I'll just have to dig into it. I do wish I could find some sort of parts manual / diagram for this unit.
 
I've had a look at the service manual for the SL-5 (which is really helpful and WAY better than the one for the SL-QL1) and it looks like the record size detector lever (part 16) is just a mechanical device acting on a microswitch (S701). It's not motor driven so there's no chance of any failed electrical components I reckon. Most likely it's gummed up with old grease / dirt or just dried out and stiff. You could hit it with a bit of lube spray or if you're feeling a bit more adventurous you could pull the bottom cover and clean / lube it a bit more thoroughly.

Good luck :)
 
The size detection on my SL-QL1 is done optically, so no sticky levers or switches for me to worry about :-)
 
A little snippet of info from VE about a similar problem -

"
Record Size Detection Lever on page 6 of 11 in the Owner's manual. Either the switch is not being activated, dirty or broken, so that the turntable logic always thinks there is a 45 on the table.
If you push this lever, you should hear a faint click.... if not then the switch is broken. If you hear the click, perhaps the contacts are slightly dirty and not switching on and telling the tonearm to drop at 30CM / 12IN diameter lead in groove"
 
Thanks guys; I've been swamped and haven't had a chance to check in here since last week.
It is def a mechanical lever that is extended when the lid closes. It hits the edge of the record, assuming a 12" is on the platter, activates the microswitch, and then retracts slightly. If no record is sensed, it doesn't retract or hit the microswitch. I'll sure have a look at the manual and links above and give it a shot. I'll report back with progress! ;)
 
Looks like the plastic mechanical peice is not retracting and remains touching the record. Also when you take bottom panel off, you can see there is a cam (? not sure word that is mounted on a pin, that has a crack in it)
 
Solved problem, added a 3/8 cabinet bumper (Home Depot) to the piece on the cover that engages the lever. This pushes it back far enough to allow it to clear the record.
 
Sorry, to hijack the thread, but maybe, it's the same "problem" with my SL-5. I got one in very goot condition, fully working. After opening the tonearm motor cabinet, the very left of the covers, a pushpin felt down to the deck. After Cleaning and Lubricating, I managed to close the lid and the turntable ist fully working. But I dont't now how to - the hell - where to install the pushpin, who ist regulary necessary for the rest switch. It was late yesterday and I had not enough light, do anybody now, where to place this damned pushpin?Screenshot 2024-01-18 094515.jpg
 

Attachments

  • Screenshot 2024-01-18 094219.jpg
    Screenshot 2024-01-18 094219.jpg
    43.8 KB · Views: 8
awionik said:
Sorry, to hijack the thread, but maybe, it's the same "problem" with my SL-5. I got one in very goot condition, fully working. After opening the tonearm motor cabinet, the very left of the covers, a pushpin felt down to the deck. After Cleaning and Lubricating, I managed to close the lid and the turntable ist fully working. But I dont't now how to - the hell - where to install the pushpin, who ist regulary necessary for the rest switch. It was late yesterday and I had not enough light, do anybody now, where to place this damned pushpin?View attachment 3092403
Click to expand...
I don't know if you ever figure this out, but for me I put this pin in the little gap where the cover clips into the bottom. It is not a circle, but a rectangular gap, and is kinda hard to get it in there.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom