Dual 601 Auto return problems

[Frank Valdor]

I have a Dual 601 fitted with a Ortofon OM-20 Super cartridge, which is an OK setup for the time being… The problem is that the first time I used it (it’s a thrift store find in excellent condition) the auto function stopped working.

I raises and lowers the arm, both if I try to start it automatically and when it reaches the end of a record. I have lifted the TT from the chassis, and compared it to the service manual – but as I’m a total tech noob it doesn’t give me the confidence in trying to do anything myself. Therefore I thought it be best to consult you guys first.

I have the service manual.

Grateful for any suggestions and help in these matters.

[cosmicdust]

Hi Frank Valdor,

When the tonearm finishes the last grooves and rides the "empty grooves" around the spindle hole; carry the tone-arm and gently push it towards the spindle hole and this will kick the start the mechanism that controls the auto-return.

I had a similar problem once and is what I did. Been OK since.

But wait for Pustelniakr (Rich P) or Fred Longworth to help you with this.
cosmicdust.

[Frank Valdor]

Thanks! I'll try that (i'm at work right now). But maybe we had different problems: my arm raises at the end of the record, and doesen't continue to play the inner grooves... If i use the auto lever to start the TT, the arm raises, the platter revolves, but the arm never shifts of the beginning of the record. It just lifts and lowers, as it does when the record ends.

[bohhey]

When the auto start/stop function is engaged, the main cam lever engages a plastic tipped "pin". This moves the tonearm. This plastic tip deteriorates over time. Time to take it in for service. In my opinion, the 601 is the fussiest Dual to service.

[cosmicdust]

Hi Frank V.,

OK try this. Use the cue lever and raise the tone-arm and move it across the platter till you hear a click and when you feel kick back release the tone-arm quickly and the tone-arm should swing back to the holder.

If this does not happen then it's a mechanical problem connected with what Mr Boh Hey said.

Thank you :-)
cosmicdust.

[Frank Valdor]

Yep - the problem's mechanical... Any tip on how to repair it without involving a pro?

[bohhey]

I took you at your word...

"but as I’m a total tech noob it doesn’t give me the confidence in trying to do anything myself"

Not a good idea to learn on this Dual - it very well might end up in the trash. Buck up & spend the cash to fix it right. It will then give you years of good service!!

[Fred Longworth]

Most Dual turntables use a tiny soft-plastic "nub" as a clutch pad between the base of the arm and the main lever. The part number is 223777.

This usually cracks and disintegrates. You'll find little fragments of it on the paddle-shaped head of the main lever. When it dies, the main lever will no longer be able to move the tonearm LATERALLY (or will move it in a weak or spastic fashion.)

turntableexperts.com (owner: Adam Ruthkowsky) located in Long Island will sell you the part. It only takes about five minutes to install it.

Hope this helps.

Fred

[Frank Valdor]

Thank you for your help - I think I'll order the part and maybe get a tech to install it. Otherwise I'll do it myself... Trial & error is the best way to increase skill. I'm not planning on being a tech noob for the rest of my life. :scratch2:

[cosmicdust]

Hi Frank V.,

I have decided to be a tech noob all my life :-) hehehehhe .... This way this area of expertise will flow to my betters and they will become better in what they do :-))

OK!
cosmicdust.

[Frank Valdor]

I have had the same philosophy for years, Cosmic but for the time being I live in a pretty vintage techfree zone in the North of sweden, so all of a sudden I have to go Mad Max on my vintage stuff.

[cosmicdust]

Hi Frank V.,

My cousin-sister lives in Sweden. She got married to a guy who works for Hutchcinson (it's a phone company me thinks). One of these days, I'm going to fly over to visit.

Thanks :-)
cosmicdust.