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If running a ground wire from the chassis does not eliminate the hum, there may be a
more complex problem involving the particular arm/cartridge combination. VPI will
attempt to provide assistance, but please understand that it is not possible for us to be
familiar with all the numerous arm/cartridge combinations. You may also want to
contact both the arm and cartridge manufacturers.
Motor overheating—synchronous motors, such as the one used in the HW-19 JR,
normally show a 30 degree to 40 degree C rise in temperature after they have been
running for a while. Therefore, you can expect that the motor pulley will become hot to
the touch. It’s perfectly normal. Relax and forget about it.
Motor does not turn smoothly—when they are turned off, synchronous motors do not turn
as easily as Induction motors. If you attempt to rotate the motor pulley by hand, you will
feel some resistance. You will notice that it “jumps” from position to position as it turns.
This is the result of the multiple-pole internal permanent magnet. Again, it’s perfectly
normal. Keep relaxing.
Noisy motor—some noise is normal from the type of synchronous motor used on the JR.
You needn’t be concerned unless: 1) you can hear motor noise through the loudspeakers
while playing records (make sure it’s not just with one or two records); or 2) you can hear
the noise from across the room when no record is being played (not through the
loudspeakers). If either of these conditions is apparent, please contact your dealer or the
factory for assistance.
MAINTENANCE
The drive belt on the HW-19 JR is made of pyrothane and, under ordinary conditions,
will provide long service. Dusting the belt every three months with talcum powder will
provide for a smoother start up and turn off. For optimum performance we recommend
installing a new drive belt every two years. There is enough powder in the bag for many,
many powderings. Seal the bag and shake the belt around in it. Shake excess powder
back into the bag as you remove the belt. Shake off all loose powder.
The main bearing of the turntable and the bearing of the motor should both be lubricated
using 40 weight motor oil. Slick 50 is preferred, but any good motor oil will do. One
drop on the motor shaft, and two drops on the main bearing shaft and two down the hole
of the main bearing well, is sufficient.
NOTE:
Compounds containing silicones are not recommended for use on or near any
electronic equipment. While silicone polishes give a high-luster finish, another property
of silicones is migration. The tiniest amount can spread itself in an extremely thin layer,
degrading electrical contacts. Once a contact has been contaminated with silicone, it is
nearly impossible to clean it completely off.
The JR’s dust cover and acrylic chassis may be cleaned with glass cleaner. Do not use
solvents, abrasives, or other glass cleaners of any sort. Make sure not to drip any
cleaning solution on the turntable or its base.
The platter should be kept scrupulously clean so that no dirt is transferred to the record
being played. Windex ™ is the best cleaner we have found. Note: any cleaner must be
completely dried off before placing a record on the platter. Be sure to use a clean, lint-
free cloth to wipe with.
The natural finish wood base has a hard lacquer finish. No care is needed beyond a
periodic dusting with a clean, soft cloth. Do not use solvents, abrasives, or other cleaners
of any sort.
