Restoring another Linn Sondek LP12, Stripdown Part 1

Something very alluring about Linn Sondek LP12 turn table. There seems to be an undying romance for it, if one comes around! Here's another example, my buddy had this one sitting in his store room for the last 30 over years in which so long, he had forgotten about it!

Last year, he was moving house and had to clear the store room, wah la!.................... he found this and suddenly he had the nostalgic urge to hear this Linn LP12 sing again. He asked if I could help him with this? How could I say no to a Linn LP12?

The work involved by steps, completely strip down, each part examine for condition, and identified for either restoration or to be replaced with new parts.

This is the pictorial guide of the strip down, here goes: 

First, the underside board for the Linn is removed, revealing the motor, Valhalla PS board, suspension, sub chassis and bearing.  

P-Clip broken, in any self respecting Linn LP12 restoration, this P-Clip is an important item, and if broken, must be replaced, as it's function is to keep the tone arm cable in it's place, so it doesn't interfere with the springs & rubber grommet suspension. 

The rubber feet on the 4 corners have been replaced with oversized door stopper as a solution. This one will have to be replaced with original feet or better yet, go for the expensive Trampolin option!

The tonearm cable is too old, all the contact points are either oxidized or corroded. New one please? 

Again, the power cord will need to be replaced. When doing Linn LP12 restoration, there's always temptation to use something better, or audiophile grade. However be reminded that this is counter productive as the Linn requires something soft and pliable, so that it fits the wire clip, and doesn't interfere with the suspension movement. I typically use the industrial grade 13amp Furukawa power cord, proudly made here in Malaysia!

The Valhalla Power Supply board, connected to the 50Hz A/C motor. In this neglected example, both the items are not working and will need to be replaced.

This is the older fluted plinth model, with no corner bracing.

The wooden plinth, completely strip down. Now this is ready for restoration by furniture maker.

The serial number puts this Linn LP12 production date to sometime between 1984 - 1988 vintage.

All the major parts ready to go for restoration, the wooden plinth to the furniture maker, the top plate and outer platter, both aluminum, goes to the machining shop for polishing.

Many other parts, such as new spring & grommet set, 50Hz A/C motor, Valhalla supply board, tonearm & T cable, original corner feet, and lastly the wooden arm board all needs to be ordered.

Re-assembly work can only start once all the parts are in my hands. Stay tuned for After Part 2!