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AR ES–1 Problem.... Suggestions

I have an AR ES–1 turntable that has been in storage for a while. I have set it up and now hear a soft rubbing–grinding coming from the bearing, I believe. I have removed the inner platter and gently swabed the bearing and bearing spindle and relubricated same. This has made no difference.Does this mean the bearing is bad or the bearing seat or what? I realize this isn't a high end unit but when it was new I replaced the horrible stock arm with a Sumiko Premier MMT and a Sure V15 5 MR cartridge that is still pretty low mileage. I would rather try to remedy the problem than upgrade at this time. Does anyone have any experience with this problem?? Any ideas??Thanks
spindrifter
spindrifter OP
105 posts
 
I did some trouble shooting before posting and did the things that Viridian suggests. The brushing–grinding is in the bearing, seat area. There is another problem though which is motor related. Even while the unit is off the motor trembles-vibrates(to the touch). When on the platter turns at the right speed but the vibration while off troubles me even though I don't know weather it adds rumble during play.Thanks for all your help and any more suggestions for a remedy or as to whom to contact for information would be appreciated. Cheers
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
The motor actually still gets voltage with the on-off switch in the "off" position and the trembleing is normal, though still somewhat off putting. Contact AR regarding the bearing problem. You said that you conducted the suggested tests but did not say if the turntable was binding in the spin test or, if you experienced excessive rumble. Is there any visual damage to the spindle when removing the sub platter? sometimes, in the ARs the bottom of the platter rubs on the top of the plinth.
pbb
1,135 posts
 
Yes, they do that. Quite strange that the motor continues to vibrate even though the tt is off, but that is normal as some current always runs to the motor; weird, but normal.
spindrifter OP
105 posts
 
The spindle is square and true with no wear or damage I can see.The platter doesn't seem to be spinning as free and easy as it should and the very low grade brushing–rubbing–grinding sound is ever present. I believe I will try to contact the sources suggested above for assistence. The trouble "looks" to be the bearing seat,(the brass or bronze alloy?) that the bearing rests on. Thanks Viridian and all others for your input. Peace
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