I bought one of these second hand and it runs as described but it has a bit of a jerk sometimes when moving. Found two gear teeth were squared instead of pointed. Now it is probably impossible to put in a new gear so should I just sharpen the offending teeth or would that cause other problems. The jerk is not large but if I am going to replace my present turntable, I would like it to run smooth.
If you can get at them I would certainly try sharpening those squashed teeth. I may work, it may not, but the only cost will be your time. You might also want to call Walthers to see if a replacement gear is available and how to install it.
Good luck!
I agree…do the expedient and easy possibilities first. If you can run a needle file or some 300 grit sandpaper over the ends of the offenders and finish them off even slightly better, it may do all you need it to do. My bet is that about five minutes worth of gentle filing, then a finish with 600+ grit and a suitable lube, would have that turntable running much more smoothly.
BTW, have you determined if the pit is properly true at all radius ends? The kits that required erecting were notoriously bad for that problem (out of round). If the bridge end binds at some points, one would expect it to jerk as the gears loaded.
-Crandell
I agree, Clean up those square teeth so they fit like the others into the nesting gear. May solve the whole issue, but then may only be a partial fix.
Sharpen the squared teeth, that should do it.
Rich
If memory serves, the rails on the bridge can slide a bit forward and back. A rail too far forward could catch on any number of things and cause a bit of a “jerk”. The cause of this may not be noticeable since the offending strike point might push the rail back into a better position (while creating the jerking motion). I’d double check all clearance points and when you’re sure they are all clear put a touch of CA on the rails so they don’t slide anymore. It should go without saying but be careful with the CA around all the moving parts, etc.
If you do file anything, be very careful of the dust. If I’m remembering correctly, the contacts, wipes, and mechanism are all a bit fragile and easily dirtied. When I had mine installed years ago, I kept it all covered with a plastic wrap cover with an elastic band built in. I think it was designed for covering crock pots in the fridge. When doing work on the layout nearby or that was dusty, I removed the bridge, put a piece of painters tape over the center hole, recovered the pit with the plastic wrap cover, and then put the bridge back in its original box. I also cleaned up the whole area often using a vacuum for any dust and debris. That all might be overkill but I never had issues with the TT Like many seem to have. Since it’s such an important part of the layout and not easy (or cheap) to replace, I’d rather be safe than sorry!
As for Walthers, I think I’ve read on these forums that you have to send the whole thing back to them. I remember some complaints about the delay, process, and “repair” charges. Another reason to use caution and be extra careful.
Thanks!
Regarding the protection of the TT mechanism from dust and other detritus, follow the suggestion made by someone I cannot recall to buy a large plastic dish cover at a place like Party City. I even found one deep enough to clear the tower on the bridge (it is more like a deep bowl). Then you simply cover the whole assembly with it without removing and reinstalling the bridge. My TT is the 90’ model. I don’t know if there is a cover big enough for the 130’ TT.
Dante