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Technics SL-Q303: Auto return not disengaging

T

Technicsalex

New Member
Hi there,

I am new to turntable and vinyl. I recently purchased a Technics SL-Q303 in what appeared to be mint condition. Came with the original marketing brochure and instruction manual. All functions appeared to work fine when I went to view the item. After a few hours of playing records, the auto start function seems to get stuck in the auto return loop. It is as if the auto return mechanism fails to disengage. I have made a video of the issue available here:

I include a video showing the issue:

Is this an adjustment that needs to be made? For example the auto return screw?

Does anybody have any ideas what might be causing the issue?

Thanks!
 
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Try turning the platter by hand manually for around 10 revolutions. This is the advice provided in the operating manual for assembly of Technics decks in this range including the q303 in order to "assure correct operation of the automatic mechanism". Simple to do so worth a try in case it does solve your issue.
 
Thanks for the response. I've tried that, and sometimes it appears to work. Interestingly, I have the instruction manual and there is no mention of this.

Is there a way to disable the auto cueing and auto return?
 
The instruction is a note on page 3 of the copy of operating manual I have and relates to assembly. The same instruction appears in other models in the range (eg Q202 which I own) and on some eg the SL-Q2 it is also suggested as a means of disengaging the automatic mechanisms if they lock up when the deck is moved.
 
Ah yes, I found the instruction note. It seems to work, however after a few sides of vinyl (ie once the auto return has correctly returned to the start a few times) the issue occurs again.

Is there a way to disable the auto mechanism or do you think the cause is lack of lubricant in the automatic mechanism?
Thanks
 
I am not really able to advise on disabling automatic mechanisms beyond what is described in the manual. There are differences between the Q303 and the Q202 I own and I do not use my Q202 much.

The problem reoccurring is a concern.

I understand there is a sensor associated with the platter which forms part of the automatic functions. It is is possible to lift the platter off on these decks and a quick clean/dust under the platter and reassembly is something I would consider doing.
 
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