Lemon Amiga runs on passion — not intrusive ads or paywalls. But keeping the site alive comes with real costs: servers, software, hardware, and ongoing maintenance. Most visitors never donate, but if just a few do today, we can keep everything running smoothly. If Lemon Amiga has brought you joy, nostalgia, or simply been helpful, please consider a small gift. Your support helps ensure the site stays online for years to come. Thank you.
According to original Thorens service documentation, a noisy or slow-running turntable is usually caused by a neglected E50 motor. Over decades, the factory oil in the porous bronze bushings dries out, turning into a sticky varnish. Step-by-Step Motor Overhaul:
If you want, I can locate an online scan or PDF of the original TD 124 service manual and provide direct download suggestions. Which would you prefer?
The Thorens TD124 is widely regarded as one of the finest transcription turntables ever built. Introduced in 1957, its unique idler-wheel and belt-drive hybrid system delivers a potent combination of high torque, speed stability, and musical dynamics. However, because these machines are decades old, achieving peak performance requires systematic maintenance.
Thorens Turntable Maintenance and Tuning Guide - Manuals.plus thorens td124 service manual
Anyone have a lead on the rare 1962 supplement for the early 110V export models? My motor has the black plastic junction box and the wiring shown in the common manual doesn’t quite match.
Do you have experience with ?
To help you get started on your specific restoration project, let me know: According to original Thorens service documentation, a noisy
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later.
The weight of the heavy platter rests entirely on a small ball or rounded spindle tip riding against a flat thrust pad (originally made of Tufnol or steel). If the pad has a deep pit, replace it with a modern replacement made of PEEK or polished steel to drastically reduce friction.
The original service manual acts as the primary "map" for restoration. It details specific procedures to maintain the deck's legendary quiet performance: Which would you prefer
Restoration Guides & Step-by-Step Walkthroughs
The bottom of the motor rotor rests on a small thrust pad. Inspect this pad for a deep indentation. If pitted or worn through, flip the pad over or replace it with a modern Delrin or bronze equivalent to reduce vertical friction. Step 3: Main Spindle Bearing Service
Do you have the or an aftermarket aluminum/non-magnetic replacement?
Mark the motor halves with a sharpie before separation to ensure perfect realignment during reassembly. Undo the long thru-bolts.
Put the platters back on and let the turntable run for at least two hours to allow the fresh lubricants to distribute evenly and warm up to operating temperature. Use a strobe disc under a neon or LED light source to verify speed stability. A perfectly serviced Thorens TD124 should lock onto speed within one revolution and maintain dead-silent, whisper-quiet operation.
