I'm ready to install my new Denon cart in my Thorens TD 160. Looks like a pretty straight forward install but the screws supplied are to long and the wrong diameter. I have the screws that were in the shell but they are metalic. (the screws supplied are aluminum). The directions state that "because of the strong magnet used in the cart it can't be used with a metallic turntable or where magnetic materials are used..." Does anyone know if I might have a problem using metallic screws since they would be against the cart. It is an MC cart. Any opinions would be appreciated.

John

For a Thorens arm like TP16 you need 2mm metric screws of the right length to suit the cartridge
none of the screws supplied work unless they are 2mm metric - but sometimes you can use non metric washers as spacers

cut lengths of pvc "straws" can act as spacers

Thanks. That lets me know what size to get if I need them. I've got various metal spacers sitting around that should work with the screws that were in the head shell but what about the magnetic issue of metal screws versus aluminum. Maybe it's not an issue but I want to make sure.

I'm using metal screws on my TD 160 with DL 160 and no problem.

You will need metric 2 MM. Thorens screw sets are available here: http://www.theanalogdept.com/m2_screws.htm
You may be able to find them local at any good hardware store or hobby shop.
I used about 3/16" spacing on my TD125 MkII. (Same Head Shell), but some was due to installing a new thrust plate which raised the platter a tad. VTA adjustment is via 2 set screws under the pivot base collar on the arm, and you can adjust the cue via 1 setscrew in the cue arm collar. That arm and the DL160 is a nice match. I also used the provided Denon metal plate on the head shell, then the shims, then the cartridge.
Have Fun,
Regards,
Jim

I know some have had luck so far but I would not use the metallic screws. Thats a very strong magnet and you will be interfereing with its field to some extent. Take some time and find the right aluminum screws.

do you have a good hardware store close by? We have one in my town that sells any type of hardware you can imagine - they also sell nylon screws and i would almost bet they have them in that size.
I love those old style hardware stores........i have been there dozens of times and still find the most useful things in there. Imagine a store with wall to wall parts bins with any kind of nut or bolt you an imagine and dozens that you never knew existed.....
Just look for a family owned one that has been around for a few decades.....
outside chance Lowes may even sell them, but not sure if their nylon ones are that small.
Good hardware store would also probably have aluminum -

You will need metric 2 MM. Thorens screw sets are available here: http://www.theanalogdept.com/m2_screws.htm
You may be able to find them local at any good hardware store or hobby shop.
I used about 3/16" spacing on my TD125 MkII. (Same Head Shell), but some was due to installing a new thrust plate which raised the platter a tad. VTA adjustment is via 2 set screws under the pivot base collar on the arm, and you can adjust the cue via 1 setscrew in the cue arm collar. That arm and the DL160 is a nice match. I also used the provided Denon metal plate on the head shell, then the shims, then the cartridge.
Have Fun,
Regards,
Jim

Hey Jim,

Why did you use the provided plate that goes between the cart and headshell? Needle doctor told me that it was to add weight if tone arm couldn't be zero balanced.

Also, any tips on how to position the table when installing the cart? The arm only lifts so far and it is hard to see what you're doing.

Hey Jim,

Why did you use the provided plate that goes between the cart and headshell? Needle doctor told me that it was to add weight if tone arm couldn't be zero balanced.

Also, any tips on how to position the table when installing the cart? The arm only lifts so far and it is hard to see what you're doing.

The head shell is removable, turn the collar behind the head shell to the right to release the head shell. you may need to wiggle it a bit to remove it. I thought the sound improved with the use of the weight to the head shell. it changes the mass of the arm/cartridge combo would be my guess. You can try it both ways and decide for yourself.
Regards,
Jim