Sanyo stereo radio phonograph sound issues.

[JasonObsydian]

I'm trying to resurrect my childhood SANYO G-2312N stereo radio phonograph. On 'radio' I get sound from both speakers (although I'm sure I remember there being a lot more am/fm radio stations when I was 8! ).

The issue is that on 'phono' I just get noise on the left side, music on the right.
I'm sure I remember the record playing in stereo as a child so assume there is a fault. Any ideas where to start?

I've attached a photo of the model, for reference.

[Edward Huggins]

Carefully check all 4 of the stereo cartridge push-on connectors. A pair of tweezers will help you. There are likely to be less AM stations than years ago, but propably more FM stations.

[TonyDuell]

It should indeed play records in stereo.

The same amplifier is used for radio and records (and indeed tape) so that must be working.

If it's not bad connections at the back of the pickup cartridge, the most likely fault is the cartridge itself. I had that problem with one of my 'briefcases'. The original cartridge seems to have been a Vaco Luxor which you might be able to find (although they do deteriorate with age). I made up a bracket and fitted one of those Chinese red/black cartridges in mine, works fine and is a lot cheaper.

[JasonObsydian]

Think you may have been right! One of the wires was broken off. Unfortunately, in prizing out the cartridge the other three slipped off too. Can you help with the order?

[Edward Huggins]

It's always best to make a sketch of the wire's colour and the terminations first. Are there any legends e.g "LH+" on the cartridge body mouldlng?

[TonyDuell]

The attached photo shows the original cartridge in one of my briefcases.

With the cartridge in that orientation -- stylus side up and terminals on the right, the wires from the top are :

Thin Red
Screen round red
Screen round blue
Thin Blue.

Note that, unconventionally, the left channel is red, the right blue

[JasonObsydian]

I’m getting nothing from either channel now so assume I need to replace the cartridge. Tony, you mentioned fitting a Chinese red/black cartridge. Would you be able to post a picture to show how you attached this?

[TonyDuell]

It'll take a bit of time to find them but I do have pictures.

Actually, look in my flickr account (tony_duell). There should be an album of Sanyo pictures including fitting the cartridge.

[JasonObsydian]

Thanks. Found it.

[ben]

Those VacoLuxor cartridges used in the portable players very often fail, usually one channel goes first. Unfortunately they are so slim that it can be tricky to find a suitable replacement. The Chuo Denshi clones might be a bit wide but they're so cheap it is worth a try. The original carts use a sort of friction fit with metal prongs, but the Denshis do not so you may have to get creative there.

Perhaps a BSR SC11 or 12 will fit and a small hole can be drilled in the headshell - these affix via a single screw.

[JasonObsydian]

Fantastic support as always from this group. All fixed and working perfectly. Thank you for your help

[ben]

Good news!
What cartridge did you use and how did you attach it?

[JasonObsydian]

I used one of the Chinese red/black cartridges. Wedged in place with 2 strips of soft rubber for now. Works perfectly.

[JasonObsydian]

The issue I have now is that the idler wheel I fitted is too loose on the spindle and the record plays with a variable speed! Sounds terrible! Anyone know where I can source one with the right diameter centre hole?

[TonyDuell]

I know what I would try to do about that : Turn a brass or phosphor bronze bush to fit in the idler hole and run properly on the spindle.

Do you know anybody with a small lathe who could help out ?

[JasonObsydian]

No that’s not an option. I think my only option is to find a replacement.