TheAnalogSource wrote:I usually turn down repair and restoration of Garrards. The fact is that I have no parts as well as very limited experience with the table as well as there are already a lot who mastered the table. Only few occasions though, we can’t refuse close friends who wants their table handled with our love and care.
Mr. O’s Garrard 401 came in the quite rare original SME plinth. He wanted a replinth even though several times I have discouraged him because there is a certain character I love in the SME plinth.
So here we go with a Camotecue layer plinth wrapped around with Narra sheets. As I’ve mentioned, I am not familiar with the table so have to go all the way to Betis for the plinth construction instruction. While we are at it, Mr. O though of having a second arm so the original SME 3009 is now delegated to the back. The new main side arm is a JELCO 750L 12 inch. I am delighted to see how the bronze tonearm matched well with the 401 plate. Must be good Fengshui.
I only use the best mounting tools. As you can see here, the Clearaudio Alignment Tool is used for setting the correct pivot to spindle distance.
Now measuring and locating the best arm location. Boring the holes follows.
...first setback...didnt realized the 401 has a different mounting setup...screws mounted on the table...so have to drill some more hole in the plinth as well as well for the nut at the bottom.....also will look for a longer socket wrench later