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RE: SME V Setup Problem

Posted by PAR (A) on November 2, 2020 at 03:00:07

In Reply to: RE: SME V Setup Problem posted by Cool_Jeeves on November 1, 2020 at 21:48:33:

I don't see the main tool that you are missing in Tre's picture. So here are the tools that you need left to right:

HTA key . This I believe you do have. It locates in a hole between the two silver clamping bolts to move the arm to and fro along the rack in the arm base.

Bush that fits over the spindle to locate the HTA (overhang) gauge and the gauge for setting arm position for correct bias compensation

VTA key . Is this what you refer to as straight star key? This is not a star key but a vernier screw which is inserted in the locating hole behind the damping trough to raise and lower the arm ( with the clamping bolts loosened). The screw raises the arm but when lowering it the tip of the tool will raise above the platform which it otherwise presses against when in use. You then need to gently push the arm downwards using the bearing cradle.

3,0 A/F ball headed hex screwdriver. This is the tool that you need to tighten/loosen the silver arm clamping bolts. Note: do not over tighten the bolts. The clamp that they adjust only needs to grip.

You can buy a suitable ball headed hex wrench from a hardware store. For example:

https://www.screwfix.com/p/teng-tools-imperial-af-ball-end-hex-key-set-9-pieces/2096x

( this is a UK example as that is where I am).

As I have mentioned this previously you will know that I agree with John Elison. This is a fabulous arm and it should be looked after so a service from SME which will include fixing the bolts is what I would do. Not cheap but they do a complete strip down and rebuild. If you have an older sample with the copper VdH wiring then they can rewire it with the current silver plated copper VdH wiring which makes a big improvement ( that was included in the standard service charge when they did mine a couple of years ago).

As for the headshell not being level it appears that the previous owner may have tilted the arm base in order to adjust cartridge azimuth which isn't 0ffically a a feature of this arm. The arm pillar just needs putting back vertically unless damaged ( if so then another reason for return to SME for a service).

"We need less, but better" - Dieter Rams

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