Pioneer PL-41 parts?

Hello!

I have a friend who has a Pioneer PL-41 turntable where the platter was scraping. After removing the massive spindle nut there is a small brown disk at the bottom where the spindle rests. Pic here:

Is this disk something easily available? It causes the platter to sit too low in the race. It seems to be just a nylon disk--if I find the right size/thickness, could i fab one? He also lives in Seattle, if you could recommend a good place to find turntable parts in Seattle that would be cool too.

Thanks a lot for your help!

Hi,

Here's what I did:

1. Go to www.mcmastercarr.com.
Order part # 8576K194.

This will get you a 1 foot long piece of 7/8" delrin rod.
(this is the shortest piece that they carry.)
It cost me $7.75 including shipping.

2. Take it to any machine shop and have them true 1 end, and then have them slice off as many .083" thick pieces as you want.

3. There will be a slight protrusion in the center. Sand that off so that you have a smooth surface.
Take a center punch and create a small dimple in the center, (for oil) about 1mm in diameter. (easy does it here, a slight tap with the hammer will suffice)

4. When you reassemble, put a couple of teaspoons of 20-50w engine oil in reservoir.


Hope this helps

OBMG74 said:

Hi,

Here's what I did:

1. Go to www.mcmastercarr.com.
Order part # 8576K194.

This will get you a 1 foot long piece of 7/8" delrin rod.
(this is the shortest piece that they carry.)
It cost me $7.75 including shipping.

2. Take it to any machine shop and have them true 1 end, and then have them slice off as many .083" thick pieces as you want.

3. There will be a slight protrusion in the center. Sand that off so that you have a smooth surface.
Take a center punch and create a small dimple in the center, (for oil) about 1mm in diameter. (easy does it here, a slight tap with the hammer will suffice)

4. When you reassemble, put a couple of teaspoons of 20-50w engine oil in reservoir.


Hope this helps

Click to expand...

Thanks a lot! That is something I can do just fine. I sure appreciate it!

Reopening this thread so PL-41 information is consolidated in fewer places.

Picked up a PL-41 for $2.65 at a local thrift this weekend. Cover and veneer are a bit grubby but otherwise in great shape, should clean right up. It’s missing the headshell and belt. So the basic unit is in very good shape (high quality early 70s Pioneer!) nothing a little cleaning and maintenance won’t easily remedy. The platter was scraping slightly, so reading up here at AK found out about the thrust bearing. Removed the bottom cap and found the bearing plate was reduced to bits of plastic rubble – cleaned that out, along with the old dried up (and I mean DRIED UP) grease (oil?), made a new plate, an easy fix. Ordered a new belt and headshell (hoping it's not too light). Next will have to decide about a cartridge . . . I have an Ortofon MC20 that would work, but no preamp for it, so am thinking going for a new MM cart.

One topic I haven’t seen covered is restoration of the platter. The cast metal has taken on a dull look, needs some kind of attention. In addition, the grey rubber mat is dull and dry looking, and, as expected, a general scrubbing doesn’t make any difference. I’m not keen on rubber/vinyl protectants (like Armor All), as I have observed that over time this type of product evaporates and leaves a coating in enclosed spaces. I recall only too well cars I’ve owned that had vinyl floor mats that I’d lovingly maintain with a nice application of Armor All – and the inside of the windows (particularly the windshield!) would cloud over with this greasy film. Not good.

I’d welcome tips on polishing up the edge of the platter, and bringing the original look back to the rubber mat, including any products that work well. Also anything else PL-41 owners want to share.

Unfortunately I can't offer any suggestions for the platter. I just wanted to extend my condolences on your being ripped off so badly on the table. Everyone knows it's only worth $1.50. :sigh:

But congrats on your restoration efforts :thmbsp: and I hope you can get help for the platter.

Try a little Never-Dull or Brasso on that platter it will bring the shine right out.

I've found that Westley's Bleche-White tire cleaner works very well on old platter mats. Spray it on and let it sit for a minute or so, the liquid/foam will turn brown from all the grunge being lifted from the mat (or tire). Scrub the mat with a semi-soft brush (too stiff and it will leave marks) and then rinse well.

Been thinking about starting a thread about how to restore those dingy/pitted platters. In some cases, I think a machine shop may be the only way to do it right. You can polish them up but if you want to maintain that machine turned appearance of a lot of platters......?

12ax7 said:

I've found that Westley's Bleche-White tire cleaner works very well on old platter mats. Spray it on and let it sit for a minute or so, the liquid/foam will turn brown from all the grunge being lifted from the mat (or tire). Scrub the mat with a semi-soft brush (too stiff and it will leave marks) and then rinse well.

Click to expand...

The mat is actually clean, it's just dull, as most rubber products get after so many years. Any products that will "nourish" the material and restore the original look without fogging up the inside of the dust cover?

12ax7 said:

Been thinking about starting a thread about how to restore those dingy/pitted platters. In some cases, I think a machine shop may be the only way to do it right. You can polish them up but if you want to maintain that machine turned appearance of a lot of platters......?

Click to expand...

Not a bad idea, I for one would welcome more info. Lately it seems to be more classic turntables coming my way, and am enjoying the restoration as much as the use!