- Joined
- Aug 2, 2025
- Messages
- 2
I joined this site in hopes of improving my maintenance of a ball and flat platter bearing in a record player. this type of bearing is often selected because the extremely small contact point reduces both friction and noise , but because of the extremely concentred weight on a very small point that this design creates, I am seeking lubrication advice.
When I first bought the turntable, A Michell gyro SE, the owners manual stated to replace the oil every five years. And if the Michell supplied Oil was not conveniently obtainable, 30 wt synthetic is fine. Now they sell a small bottle of OEM oil and no longer mention any substitute oil.
the bearing design pumps oil via a modification of the archimedes screw , where the 33 1/3 rpm rotation of an outside brass cylinder, that is incasing a tool steel post, is inscribed with a spiral that lifts the oil up to a stainless steel bearing that sits atop the flat surface of the post, and carries the platter weight, to be drained via a hole in the post back down to the bottom reservoir.
I was wondering if some of the available oil additives that incorporate into the metal would be beneficial in preventing wear, and if so what type. I do have the ability to modify speed if the friction changes .
I am trying to secure a new bearing , as the company used to preach sustainability , but it is a small English boutique company and they have their ways. They want me to buy from an American retailer , and nobody here carries the part. I've been trying to buy a new part for about a month, so when it finally happens I want the best possible start.
Any replies are welcome . Thanks in advance.
When I first bought the turntable, A Michell gyro SE, the owners manual stated to replace the oil every five years. And if the Michell supplied Oil was not conveniently obtainable, 30 wt synthetic is fine. Now they sell a small bottle of OEM oil and no longer mention any substitute oil.
the bearing design pumps oil via a modification of the archimedes screw , where the 33 1/3 rpm rotation of an outside brass cylinder, that is incasing a tool steel post, is inscribed with a spiral that lifts the oil up to a stainless steel bearing that sits atop the flat surface of the post, and carries the platter weight, to be drained via a hole in the post back down to the bottom reservoir.
I was wondering if some of the available oil additives that incorporate into the metal would be beneficial in preventing wear, and if so what type. I do have the ability to modify speed if the friction changes .
I am trying to secure a new bearing , as the company used to preach sustainability , but it is a small English boutique company and they have their ways. They want me to buy from an American retailer , and nobody here carries the part. I've been trying to buy a new part for about a month, so when it finally happens I want the best possible start.
Any replies are welcome . Thanks in advance.
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