Sharp VZ3500E - B side sound ‘wobble’

[GillFaith]

Hi

Has anyone any advice on what may be causing an issue on my VZ3500 vertical player? I had all belts and needles replaced last year. Both A and B sides initially appeared to be fine on a really short test when I picked it up but predominantly listed to A side. When switching to play the B side, it starts off fine then begins to play as if there is a small sticking obstruction just slowing down slightly then correcting itself then slowing again (hence use of word ‘wobble’ can’t think how else to describe). Any help appreciated.

[G6ONEDave]

The cartridge seems to be driven along a thin steel wire, suggest checking that the wire is perfectly straight and not distorted or loose. Also check that there is no excessive play in the pulleys at each end and that the cartridge is properly attached and not slipping on it's clamp. Hope this helps.

[GillFaith]

Thanks. Will pass that info on to guy who refurbed it as he was at a loss. To be fair he’s not looked inside it yet. Any idea how this problem might happen?

[G6ONEDave]

If memory serves (been a very long time since I had one of these apart) the internal electrical wiring can get caught up with the turntable mechanics if not clipped / tied into place. They are not one of the easiest of record players to deal with. Also be very careful with any plastic parts, as they may well be getting brittle and if damaged will be hard to source replacements. The trouble might simply be down to the internal electrical wiring just getting in the way of the mechanics.

[GillFaith]

Thanks again Dave for taking time out to answer/help. Your suggestions/advice is much appreciated. Hopefully I’ll get it booked in this week and it will be an easy fix (fingers crossed) although having glanced inside, it looks very complicated.

[G6ONEDave]

Just had another thought, it is possible to test the b side whilst the turntable is detached from the rear of the casing but it is a bit of a juggling act, so be careful doing it. It will require some careful balancing with packers. This will prove if it is working OK and if it is, the problem has to be something fouling the mech when re-attached to the rear casing. Good luck to your repairman.

[GillFaith]

Thanks again. Dropped it off today and passed on all your suggestions. I’ll know soon if it’s a bad diagnosis. If you think of anything else please do add. All info appreciated.

[G6ONEDave]

If the same motor is used to drive the linear motion in both directions, make sure that the motor can run at stop start slow speed when playing 'side B', it could be the motor when reverse powered. It will most likely be OK at high speed reverse when it returns the 'A side' tonearm. Also check the motor driver stage.

[GillFaith]

Thanks again, again

Just heard back from the guy who is repairing it. He said he played the B-side for 10 minutes fine and then it did the ‘wobble’. A-side still plays fine.

[Michael Maurice]

If i'm correct, when playing the B side, the turntable reverses. I would try taking the turntable off and cleaning then relubricating its bearings.

[G6ONEDave]

Maybe try side b 3 or 4 times from cold and if 'wobble' re-occurs after same length of time or there abouts, perhaps look at the drive circuit for heat troubles. Possibly narrow down the problem drive component with freezer spray, if it proves to be the drive circuit.