Are you the proud owner of a Dual turntable but need to take it apart for maintenance or repairs?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of taking apart a Dual turntable step-by-step. Whether you’re dealing with a loose component or just need to give your turntable a good cleaning, our instructions will help you get the job done safely and effectively.
So grab your tools and let’s get started!
How To Take Apart A Dual Turntable
Step 1: Remove the Top Plate
The first step in taking apart your Dual turntable is to remove the top plate. To do this, you’ll need to loosen the two bolts that connect the top plate to the bottom tray. You can use a big flat screwdriver or even a small coin to loosen the bolts. Turn them anti-clockwise until you feel there is no more resistance.
Once the bolts are loosened, press down on the top plate and the bolts while pressing on the top of the bolt outwards. You’ll feel that it slides out of the hook in the tray. Do this with both bolts and now you can flip up the top plate. Be aware of any cables at the back, so just flip it up and do not try to lift it or take it completely off.
Step 2: Identify Loose Components
Once you have access to the inside of your Dual turntable, take a moment to identify any loose components. Listen for any sounds when you tilt the case from side to side. This will help you determine what might be causing any issues.
Step 3: Remove Transport Screws
If you need to remove any components, such as transport screws, refer to a video or manual for your specific model. You can find these resources online or through Dual’s customer service.
Tip the screw so the bottom swings inward. Start with one side, then the rest are easy.
Step 4: Remove Main Turntable
If you need to remove the main turntable, be careful not to force anything. Refer to your manual or online resources for specific instructions on how to safely remove this component.
Step 5: Clean and Repair
Once you have identified any loose components and removed any necessary parts, take some time to clean and repair your Dual turntable as needed. Use a soft cloth and gentle cleaning solution to wipe down all surfaces and components.
If you need to make any repairs, refer to your manual or seek professional assistance if necessary.
Gathering The Necessary Tools And Materials
Before you begin taking apart your Dual turntable, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials. Here are some items you may need:
1. Screwdriver: You’ll need a screwdriver to loosen bolts and screws that hold the turntable together. Make sure you have a variety of sizes, including both flathead and Phillips head.
2. Soft cloth: You’ll want to use a soft cloth to wipe down all surfaces and components of your turntable. Avoid using any abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the surface.
3. Cleaning solution: Depending on the condition of your turntable, you may need a cleaning solution to remove any dirt, dust, or grime. Use a gentle solution that won’t damage any of the components.
4. Manual or online resources: It’s always helpful to have a manual or access to online resources when taking apart your Dual turntable. This will provide you with specific instructions for your model and help ensure that you don’t damage any components during the process.
By gathering these tools and materials before beginning your project, you’ll be better prepared to take apart your Dual turntable safely and effectively.
Preparing The Turntable For Disassembly
Before disassembling your Dual turntable, it’s important to prepare it properly to avoid any damage or accidents. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Unplug the Power Supply
Before you start working on your turntable, make sure to unplug it from the power supply. This will prevent any electrical shock or damage to the components.
Step 2: Lock the Tone Arm
The next step is to lock the tone arm in place using its clamp. This will prevent any movement or damage to the delicate stylus and cartridge.
Step 3: Remove the Slip Mat and Platter
To make disassembly easier, remove the slip mat and platter from the turntable. Simply lift up the rubber mat and locate the metal locking that holds the platter in place. Twist this about a quarter turn and it will come off. Now you can easily lift off the platter.
Step 4: Identify Loose Components
Listen for any sounds when you tilt the case from side to side to identify any loose components. This will help you determine what might be causing any issues.
Step 5: Refer to Your Manual or Online Resources
If you need to remove any components, such as transport screws or the main turntable, refer to your manual or online resources for specific instructions on how to safely remove these components.
By following these steps, you can properly prepare your Dual turntable for disassembly and avoid any damage or accidents.
Cleaning And Inspecting The Internal Components
Now that you have access to the inside of your Dual turntable, it’s important to clean and inspect the internal components. This will help ensure that your turntable is functioning properly and prevent any potential issues down the line.
Start by visually inspecting the interior components and exterior parts of your turntable. Look for any signs of damage, wear and tear, or loose connections. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, take note of it and address it as needed.
Next, clean the controls and remove any dust from the interior of your turntable. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently clean all moving parts, being careful not to damage anything in the process. For visible parts with paint or lettering, use a simple industrial soap without any additives or abrasive particles. Be careful around silk-screen lettering.
For all inside moving parts that have old grease on them, use engine cleaner. Put these parts in a separate plastic container, spray them with engine cleaner, and leave them for 10 minutes. Remember to wear gloves or wash your hands immediately after handling this solution as it can be quite aggressive. After 10 minutes, use a simple brush and water to easily wash off all the gunk.
Finally, set your Dual turntable to factory specifications if possible. This includes adjusting bias, center voltage, DC offset, meters, and any other applicable settings. Doing so will help ensure that your turntable is performing at its best and producing high-quality sound.
By following these steps to clean and inspect the internal components of your Dual turntable, you can help ensure that it continues to function at its best for years to come.
