There is a problem with the automatic feature of my Luxman PD-277 Automatic TT (circa 1980-82).

When the automatic feature is selected, the TT starts and the arm plays correctly on the record. However, at the end of playing the record, the TT arm lifts and returns to the tone arm rest. The problem is that after this cycle, the TT arms begins a new cycle and attempts to play the LP again.

This same problem, the TT arms begins a new cycle and attempts to play the LP again, is exhibited when the "cut" button is pressed when the TT is in automatic mode.

The TT operates fine in manual mode.

Any idea what may be causing this problem?

Any suggestion on how to fix this problem?

Thanks In Advance for your advice!

When the automatic feature is selected, the TT starts and the arm plays correctly on the record. However, at the end of playing the record, the TT arm lifts and returns to the tone arm rest. The problem is that after this cycle, the TT arms begins a new cycle and attempts to play the LP again.

This same problem, the TT arms begins a new cycle and attempts to play the LP again, is exhibited when the "cut" button is pressed when the TT is in automatic mode.

The TT operates fine in manual mode.

Any idea what may be causing this problem?

Any suggestion on how to fix this problem?

Thanks In Advance for your advice!

Do you have "Repeat" engaged?

John

The switch is set to "Auto" not "Repeat"

The switch is set to "Auto" not "Repeat"

I hated to ask but you never know.

Still, it seems what you're describing is what the table would do in "Repeat" and I believe "Repeat" only works in "Auto" mode. Perhaps there's a problem in the switch. Have you checked the SM? They have it at the Vinyl Engine.

John

Yes, I have the PD277 service manual and I have carefully read it, but the SM does not help troubleshoot this problem.

A Google Search yielded this tidbit of information on another site, AllExperts: http://en.allexperts.com/q/Audio-Systems-835/f/luxman-turntable.htm

Babazull wrote at 2007-09-11 15:38:28
This is an automatic TT, I have one. There are end of travel adjustments in the automatic mechanism under the unit, you have to remove the bottom cover. There are two cam-screws, one for the arm return and one for the end of the record. They're touchy but once you have it figured out it's pretty simple to adjust...just a pain in the butt turning it over and testing every time.


I am reluctant to take this unit apart to try to troubleshoot the problem as I fear that I might make matters worse!

At this point, I am trying to identify (1) what is this problem and (2) if this problem can be repaired by a vintage TT specialist.

It definitely sounds like the repeat function is stuck. As the repeat function should stop when the switch is moved from repeat to auto, and the cut switch then pressed, there’s obviously a problem with the circuit in that part. The repeat enables SCR1 (Silicon Controlled Rectifier 1) to turn on, and the solenoid rotates to either the EP or LP position, when the tonearm returns to its rest, just as it does when the start button is pressed – in the other modes SCR1 should be off and the solenoid shouldn’t begin rotation until the start button is pressed, when the arm is on its rest. I’d say the problem is probably due to SCR1 remaining on, but it may either be something as simple as a stuck switch, or something electronic, in which case, you need a service technician.

The service manual gives a basic description of what’s supposed to happen in all modes, so most electronic techs (e.g. TV repairman) should be able to find a problem with the electronics – it’s just a matter of replacing components nearby in the circuit, until the problem goes away. Just as long as they treat the turntable with a bit of care while they are testing it, you should be safe. Most are used to tracing problems with fragile LCD and plasma screens supported on bits of foam or cushions, so a turntable shouldn’t phase them. If they are under 40, you may have to supply the operating manual, and an old record, so they can test it in operating conditions, and work out what it’s supposed to do. Just don’t supply your most precious record!:D

The only problem I noticed with the service manual, apart from an absence of much info, including fault finding, was some problems in translating their thoughts into English – I don’t know what the “axe” (several of them, actually) which you are supposed to lubricate is, but I think it may be axles they were thinking of, not axes!:scratch2:

I had a look at my Luxman PD-288 service manual, but that’s a later design, with a completely different circuit. The operating manual does say that to stop repeat operation, you have to move the function switch from “repeat” to “auto”, and then press cut, with a record playing, and the tonearm will return to rest. I think you know that already, seeing you mentioned it in your first post. The bit you mentioned in your last post is just associated with where the tonearm sets down and picks up from at the start and end of records, so unless that’s a problem (e.g. missing the record at the start, or ending before the record is finished), it shouldn’t need adjustment. It’s shown in the PD-277 service manual at the end of page 2 and beginning of page 3. It may also be mentioned in your operating manual – it is in mine, with an additional page that’s not part of the main manual.

-Don

Don:

Thank you for the detailed response to my posting about the problem with my PD-277 TT.

Your response mentioned
"The operating manual does say that to stop repeat operation, you have to move the function switch from “repeat” to “auto”, and then press cut, with a record playing, and the tonearm will return to rest. I think you know that already, seeing you mentioned it in your first post."

I just tried the Cut button when the TT was engaged and operating in "Auto" mode. The arm lifts up and returns the rest position. It did NOT start another play cycle! :thmbsp:

I do not have the operating manual (OM) for the PD-277 so I did not understand some of the finer points of the operation of this TT. I do have the service manual for the PD-277.

Again, Thank You for the information. It was very helpful in helping understand and resolve this problem.

Steve

Glad I was of some help, and that you fixed it.:thmbsp:

-Don