Introduction

More Lencos is the name, and we start with a list of straightforward maintenance tasks which are recommended for any Lenco with idler drive.

Thanks for the visit.

To see my original site, detailing work on my Lencos, read the Intro and Disclaimer, and check some useful Lenco links - click the link below.

Strictly Idler - drive that is

PS If you spot any errors in my meanderings, or have info that could be added, or have links that fit the topic, and you want to share, please email  -

 boring50s@hotmail.com

Basic Maintenance

Motor Voltage

First check should be the settings for motor voltage, see the motor page for more info.

2 common causes of rumble - Plastic idler wheel and Motor suspension.

These decks do have a reputation (right or wrong) for producing rumble.  One cause I have found for motor noise getting to the speakers is the plastic idler wheel, particularly when the already hard rubber tyre gets worn or uneven.  No choice here but replacement, preferably with a metal wheel version, note if you are buying parts the wheels/bearings are not interchangeable, it's best to salvage a complete arm and wheel from a donor deck.

Another thing to check carefully is the motor suspension.  I remove the transit screws completely as they can touch the deck plate during play.  The springs need to be checked individually for breaks/damage, they do get broken. See pic here.

Platter Removal

The first problem for most people in servicing the deck will be - how to remove the platter?  It's a lot easier with a helper.  The technique recommended by Lenco is to put a little upward pressure on the platter, by gripping from opposite sides with the fingertips and pulling up.  Then tap the centre spindle lightly with a block of wood or screwdriver handle, the platter will lift off once the tapered grip is freed by the light tap.  The emphasis in the last sentence is not accidental, we are not trying to knock the spindle out of the record player.  The spindle is held in the bearing housing by a small set screw and some people prefer to remove that and lift the platter and spindle out complete.  Be warned that while this works, the weight of the platter is sufficient to bend the bearing spindle unless it is removed and replaced perfectly straight.  Pays your money ..etc.

Check the Bearings (update Jan 2006)

The Lenco main bearing has 2 oilite bushes.  The bushes are sintered bronze, pre-loaded with oil and essentially maintenance free. Lenco considered these set for life (Manual here), but if they dry out after 40 yrs then they need fresh oil not grease, which may impair their operation by clogging the cavities in the material.  However, the spindle is supported by a 5mm ball bearing and thrust plate that need some lube that won't leak out the bearing case, ie grease.  All that is required, after cleaning, is new grease in the lower chamber, and a few drops of oil on the spindle/felt pad to top up the oilites.  Fast start time and long platter run down time, no wonder they fitted a brake to the 75/78.

The motor bearing components don't usually require any maintenance other than a drop or 2 of oil on the spindles.  If the motor has bearing noise then see the GL55 page for details of the motor construction/strip down.  Please read the notes before dismantling the motor.

Misc

Again in the Lenco manual, they suggest if the slideway of the speed change mechanism is dry, then vaseline should be applied.  (Jean recommends using plenty of grease here.)

At all times the under side of the platter should be kept clean - along with the idler wheel and the motor drive cone.  Any dirt or grease on these will directly affect speed stability, and potentially cause noise.

A few drops of thin oil on the idler wheel bearing bush is usually all it needs.  Careful that no oil drips on the edge of the wheel.

More maintenance tips at Freek's Lenco ToDo List.  Then at Blue's Lencoland site - arm fixing info, and packing the Lenco for a trip.