Are you having trouble with your Audio Technica turntable?
Specifically, is the platter not turning?
Don’t worry, it’s a common issue that can be easily fixed by putting the belt back on.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to ensure your turntable is up and running smoothly again.
Whether you’re a seasoned vinyl enthusiast or a beginner, our step-by-step instructions will make it easy for you to put the belt on your Audio Technica turntable.
So, let’s get started!
How To Put Belt On Audio Technica Turntable
Step 1: Check the Belt
The first step is to check if the belt is still routed around the gold-colored motor pulley and that it is taut. To do this, remove the black felt mat from the turntable and rotate the aluminum record platter by hand until one of the large rectangular openings is positioned at the upper left corner of the turntable (at about the 10 o’clock position). Look down into the opening and locate the gold-colored motor pulley. Make sure that the belt is around the pulley and that it is taut.
Step 2: Remove the Platter
If the belt is off the motor pulley, it is probably off the platter as well. To reinstall the belt, remove the platter from the turntable by placing your thumb and a finger in the two circular holes near the spindle and gently lifting the platter straight up.
Step 3: Place Belt Around Drive Rim
Turn the platter over so that the bottom is facing up, and reinstall the drive belt around the drive rim, which is located about an inch from the platter’s outer edge. Make sure there are no twists in the belt.
Step 4: Reinstall Platter
Reinstall the platter onto the turntable and rotate it by hand until one of the large rectangular openings is located at the upper left corner of the turntable (at about the 10 o’clock position). Look down into the opening and locate the gold-colored motor pulley. Grab the belt from inside edge of the rectangular opening and pull it over and around the pulley.
Step 5: Reset Automatic Cycle Mechanism
After verifying that the belt is still around the pulley (or after reinstalling it), follow these steps to reset your turntable’s automatic cycle mechanism:
– Unplug your turntable from its power source.
– Press and release STOP button.
– While holding your tonearm in its rest with one hand, use your other hand to slowly rotate your aluminum record platter in a clockwise direction for at least 10 full revolutions.
– Place a record on your record platter.
– Plug your turntable back into its power source.
– Press and release START button.
Introduction To Audio Technica Turntables
Audio Technica is a well-known brand in the world of turntables. They offer a wide range of turntables, from entry-level to high-end models. Audio Technica turntables are known for their quality construction, durability, and excellent sound quality. They are a favorite among vinyl enthusiasts and DJs alike.
One of the most important components of an Audio Technica turntable is the belt. The belt is responsible for turning the platter, which in turn spins the record. Over time, the belt can become worn or stretched, causing it to slip or even break. When this happens, it’s important to know how to replace the belt properly to ensure your turntable continues to function properly.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of putting a belt on an Audio Technica turntable. Whether you’re a seasoned vinyl enthusiast or new to the world of turntables, this guide will help you get your turntable up and running again in no time.
Understanding The Belt Placement On The Turntable
To properly place the belt on your Audio Technica turntable, you need to understand how it is routed around the platter and motor pulley. The belt is responsible for turning the platter, which in turn rotates your vinyl records.
To start, make sure that the belt is still routed around the gold-colored motor pulley and that it is taut. If it is not, you need to remove the platter and reinstall the belt.
When removing the platter, place your thumb and finger in the two circular holes near the spindle and lift it straight up. Flip it over so that the bottom is facing up, and reinstall the drive belt around the drive rim, which is located about an inch from the platter’s outer edge. Make sure there are no twists in the belt.
When reinstalling the platter, rotate it by hand until one of the large rectangular openings is located at the upper left corner of the turntable (at about the 10 o’clock position). Look down into the opening and locate the gold-colored motor pulley. Grab the belt from inside edge of the rectangular opening and pull it over and around the pulley.
It is important to note that if you have a turntable with an automatic cycle mechanism, you will need to reset it after reinstalling the platter and belt. This can be done by unplugging your turntable from its power source, pressing and releasing STOP button, while holding your tonearm in its rest with one hand, using your other hand to slowly rotate your aluminum record platter in a clockwise direction for at least 10 full revolutions, placing a record on your record platter, plugging your turntable back into its power source, and pressing and releasing START button.
By understanding how to properly place the belt on your Audio Technica turntable, you can ensure that your records play smoothly and without any issues.
Removing The Platter To Access The Belt
To access the belt, you need to remove the platter from the turntable. This is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few steps. First, lift up the dust cover and remove it from the turntable base. Next, place your thumb and finger in the two circular holes near the spindle on the platter and gently lift it straight up. Be sure to lift it evenly so that it comes off smoothly.
Once you have removed the platter, you will be able to see the underside of it. This is where you will place the belt around the drive rim that is located about an inch from the platter’s outer edge. Make sure that the belt is flat around the rim with no twists.
After placing the belt around the drive rim, you can then reposition the platter onto the turntable. Turn it until one of the large rectangular openings is located at the upper left corner of the turntable (at about the 10 o’clock position) and expose the gold-colored motor pulley. Grasp the belt between your thumb and index finger and pull it over and around the pulley, making sure not to twist it. Ensure that the belt is fully in the groove of the pulley.
With these steps completed, you can now reset your turntable’s automatic cycle mechanism as outlined in Step 5 above.
Preparing The New Belt For Installation
Before installing a new belt on your Audio Technica turntable, it’s important to prepare the belt for installation. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Check the Belt Size
Make sure that you have the correct replacement belt for your turntable. Check the model number of your turntable and compare it with the specifications of the replacement belt you purchased. Also, check the length and width of the new belt to ensure that it matches the old one.
Step 2: Clean the Platter
Remove any dust or debris from the platter of your turntable. You can use a soft cloth or a microfiber towel to wipe it down. Make sure that the platter is completely clean before proceeding.
Step 3: Stretch the Belt
To make it easier to install the new belt, stretch it out gently by pulling on both ends. This will help to loosen it up and make it more flexible.
Step 4: Practice Routing
Take the replacement belt in your hand and practice replicating the routing around each of the pulleys. Match the existing routing with such practice several times over so you feel confident and prepared to perform a DIY serpentine belt installation.
Step 5: Install the Belt
Using the serpentine belt placement tool, route the new belt around the belt path. Rotate the tensioner again while you load the belt around it. Wrap the new belt around the drive rim, then around the grooved pulleys. Finish by sliding the belt onto a rounded, non-grooved roller. Double-check to make sure the belt is aligned with all the pulleys and that it follows the correct path. Slowly release the tensioner.
By following these steps, you should be able to prepare and install a new belt on your Audio Technica turntable with ease. Remember to take your time and double-check everything before starting your turntable to ensure that all components have power and that there are no issues with your new belt installation.
Placing The Belt Onto The Turntable
Placing the belt onto the turntable requires some careful attention to detail to ensure that it is properly installed. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Remove the Dust Cover
Lift up the dust cover and remove it from the turntable base.
Step 2: Match the Replacement Belt
Make sure to match the replacement turntable belt to your specific Audio Technica turntable model. Turntable belts come in various widths, lengths, and thicknesses, all of which will affect how your records play. Refer to your owner’s manual for product replacement or search online by your specific Audio Technica turntable model. Product descriptions should indicate which type of record players the belt will work with to ensure an accurate fit.
Step 3: Remove the Platter
Remove the platter by placing your thumb and finger in the two center holes and gently lifting the platter off the center spindle.
Step 4: Place Belt Around Drive Rim
On the underside of the platter, place the belt around the drive rim that is located about 1 3/4 inches in from the outer edge of the platter. Make sure it is flat around the rim with no twists.
Step 5: Reinstall Platter
Replace the platter and turn it until one of the rectangle holes is at the 10 o’clock position exposing the gold-colored motor pulley. Grasp the belt between your thumb and index finger and pull it toward and place it around the motor pulley, making sure not to twist the belt. Make sure the belt is fully in the groove of the pulley.
By following these steps carefully, you can ensure that your Audio Technica turntable’s belt is properly placed and functioning correctly, allowing you to enjoy your vinyl records with high-quality sound.
Testing The Turntable To Ensure Proper Belt Placement
After following the steps above to put the belt on your Audio Technica turntable, it’s important to test the turntable to ensure that the belt is properly placed. If the belt is not in the correct position, it can cause speed fluctuations or even damage your records.
The easiest way to test the turntable is by using a strobe disc or mobile app. Strobe discs can be downloaded for free from many websites, and you will also need to purchase a strobe light. Place the strobe disc on the platter and start spinning it. Direct the strobe light at the revolving strobe disc and check if the lines/markings appear stationary instead of moving. This indicates that the turntable is hitting the correct speed, either 33 1/3 or 45 RPM.
Alternatively, you can use a mobile app such as ‘RPM Speed & Wow’. Place your phone on the stationary platter and make sure the counter on the screen says zero. Start spinning the platter and check the phone display which will show the RPM of your record player.
It’s important to note that not all belts are compatible with every turntable, so make sure you have the right size belt for your Audio Technica model. You can find this information online by searching for your turntable’s model replacement or contacting the manufacturer or one of their distributors. By testing your turntable after putting on a new belt, you can ensure that your records sound their best and that your turntable is functioning properly.
