Apparently a somewhat common problem afflicting the later linear-tracking models is that the tonearm assembly sticks mid-travel and can either cause slow retraction or lock the mechanism all together. Big thanks to Martin who helped call out the root of the issue. Just wanted to capture this on a thread for the good of the community so others can weigh in.
Problem: Arm 1609 (pictured below with yellow arrow) lifts and fouls underneath the large tonearm locating cam. That arm fits very loosely in its pivot. I don't have enough experience to know what the underlying issue with the design is but my observation is that the arm itself is very thin and prone to distortion, as well as having poor location accuracy due to the loose pivot.
Solution: TBD, would love input here. That arm seems responsible for locating the tonearm for 7" records. I removed the arm completely and not only was the problem solved but it had no effect on playing 12" records. Would love to know a fix that keeps the 7" function working but for now I have a working table again.
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