Are you struggling to remove the turntable from your Zenith combo?
You’re not alone. Many vintage turntables, including Zenith models, can be tricky to disassemble for repairs and cleaning.
But fear not, we’ve gathered some tips and tricks from the internet to help you remove your Zenith turntable safely and efficiently.
From dealing with stuck platters to finding replacement parts, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your tools and let’s get started!
How To Remove Zenith Turntable
First, locate the spindle bearing in the center of the turntable. There may be a small ring lock holding the table in place. Use a pick or small screwdriver to carefully remove this ring.
If the platter is stuck on the spindle due to old grease, you’ll need to heat the spindle to loosen it. Use a large soldering gun or iron, or a heat gun if you’re careful. Direct the heat onto the spindle while trying to turn the platter and pull it up at the same time.
Be aware that some levers in the mechanism may also be frozen or stiff from old grease. Use the same heat source to melt the old grease and remove them, but be careful not to damage any plastic parts.
Once everything is disassembled, clean all parts with alcohol or a similar cleaner to remove all old grease. Then lubricate with a good quality lithium grease as you reassemble the mechanism. Use the grease lightly on the mechanism – there’s no need to apply too much.
If you need replacement parts, such as a new belt or cartridge with needle, try to find original Zenith parts if possible. You can also check online marketplaces like eBay for compatible parts.
Understanding Your Zenith Turntable
The Zenith turntable is a 60s model that uses a belt to turn the table. The changer is marked with “RC 6” and 3030115 and 2983515. Unlike older models, lifting the indexing slide in the center of the turntable won’t remove it. Instead, you need to remove the platter mat and locate the spindle bearing in the center of the turntable. There may be a small ring lock holding the table in place, which you can carefully remove with a pick or small screwdriver.
If the platter is stuck on the spindle due to old grease, you’ll need to heat the spindle to loosen it. Use a large soldering gun or iron, or a heat gun if you’re careful. Direct the heat onto the spindle while trying to turn the platter and pull it up at the same time.
Be aware that some levers in the mechanism may also be frozen or stiff from old grease. Use the same heat source to melt the old grease and remove them, but be careful not to damage any plastic parts.
Once everything is disassembled, clean all parts with alcohol or a similar cleaner to remove all old grease. Then lubricate with a good quality lithium grease as you reassemble the mechanism. Use the grease lightly on the mechanism – there’s no need to apply too much.
If you need replacement parts, such as a new belt or cartridge with needle, try to find original Zenith parts if possible. You can also check online marketplaces like eBay for compatible parts.
Preparing Your Tools For Turntable Removal
Before attempting to remove the turntable, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. You’ll need a pick or small screwdriver to remove any ring locks holding the table in place. If the platter is stuck on the spindle due to old grease, you’ll need a large soldering gun or iron, or a heat gun if you’re careful. You may also need a fluorescent light source and a paper strobe disc to check the record changer speed once everything is reassembled.
It’s also important to exercise caution when using heat sources to loosen parts. Be careful not to damage any plastic parts, and use the heat source sparingly to avoid overheating or warping any components.
Lastly, if you plan on replacing any parts, make sure to research and find compatible replacements before beginning the removal process. This will save time and frustration later on.
Removing The Platter From Your Zenith Turntable
If you need to remove the platter from your Zenith turntable for repairs or cleaning, there are a few steps to follow. First, make sure the indexing slide in the center of the turntable is lifted. If your model uses a belt to turn the table, you’ll need to lift off the upper turntable platter.
However, if the rubber isolation grommets have melted or stuck to the upper platter due to age, you may need to remove the whole assembly. To do this, loosen the two allen set screws that are around the bearing housing underneath. You can then see up into the turntable at the three places where the grommets are and gently pry them off.
Alternatively, you can remove the whole changer to see up under the turntable platter and remove the grommets from there. If you encounter a small ring lock holding the table in place, use a pick or small screwdriver to carefully remove it.
If you need to check the record changer speed, you can print out a paper strobe disc online and use a fluorescent light source to test it. Remember to handle all parts with care and refer to your turntable’s manual for specific instructions.
Dealing With A Stuck Platter
If the platter is stuck on the spindle, it may take some effort to remove it. Start by having someone tap the top of the spindle with a hammer while you hold the platter and turntable up off the work area by about 1/8th of an inch. This tapping motion can help loosen the platter from the spindle.
If tapping doesn’t work, you may need to use heat to loosen the old grease that’s causing the platter to stick. Use a large soldering gun or iron, or a heat gun if you’re careful. Direct the heat onto the spindle while trying to turn the platter and pull it up at the same time.
Before applying heat, make sure to read through the service manual for your specific model of Zenith turntable to verify there are no platter retaining devices listed in the parts documentation.
Once you’ve successfully removed the platter, clean it and all other parts with alcohol or a similar cleaner to remove any old grease or debris. Then lubricate with a good quality lithium grease as you reassemble the mechanism. This will help ensure smooth operation of your turntable for years to come.
Removing The Tonearm
Removing the tonearm from a Zenith turntable can be a delicate process, but it’s necessary if you need to clean or replace it. Here are the steps to follow:
1. First, make sure the turntable is unplugged and any records have been removed.
2. Locate the tonearm pivot screw, which should be near the base of the tonearm. Use a screwdriver to carefully remove it.
3. Gently lift the tonearm out of its holder, being careful not to damage any wires or connections.
4. If you need to replace the cartridge with needle, carefully unscrew it from the end of the tonearm and replace with a new one.
5. To reattach the tonearm, carefully align it with the holes on each end of the bar and insert the pivot screw. Make sure it’s securely in place and can move freely.
6. If you’re having trouble with the tonearm not lifting up, it may be due to old grease or other issues with the mechanism. You may need to disassemble and clean it thoroughly before reattaching the tonearm.
Remember to always be gentle and careful when working with delicate parts like the tonearm on a turntable. If you’re unsure about any steps, consult a professional or refer to a service manual for your specific model.
Finding Replacement Parts For Your Zenith Turntable
If you need to find replacement parts for your Zenith turntable, there are a few options available to you. First, check if original Zenith parts are still available. You can try contacting Zenith directly or checking with authorized dealers.
If original parts are not available, you can search for compatible parts online. Websites like eBay and Amazon may have listings for compatible parts that will work with your turntable. Be sure to double-check the compatibility of the part before making a purchase.
When searching for replacement parts, keep in mind that some parts may be difficult to find. Parts that commonly degrade over time include rubber components and the stylus cartridge. If you’re having trouble finding a specific part, consider reaching out to online forums or communities dedicated to turntable repair for advice and resources.
Overall, finding replacement parts for your Zenith turntable may take some time and effort, but it’s possible to restore your turntable to working condition with the right parts and tools.
