Thorens TD150 Upgrade/Modification

[ehoove]

Some of you might be aware of my interest in vintage Thorens tables, and I thought I would let you in on my Upgrade/Modification of a Thorens TD150. I have done a TD160, and used some of that knowledge on the earlier TD150. This table is very similar in design to the Linn Lp12, in fact there is a lot of speculation in thregard to the Chicken or Egg theory. I could care less, as both are great solid, albeit similar belt drive designs. I have included some pics to help describe the process. I am updating a TD150 ABMk1 with no cue device installed, and have sold off the stock Thorens arm. The Plinth will serve as my model, and I will install a Jelco 370 varient AKA L.A.D model with the shorter 750D length arm. Here we see the new plinth.
Regards,
Jim

[ehoove]

And here is the TD150 mounted on same for confirmation of measurements!
Regards,
Jim

[f1 fan]

Jim...sweet, let us know how it sounds.

Dave

[ehoove]

I have replaced the old Thorens phono leads with Silver Plated Stranded OFC Copper wire that I have become very fond of, polished the bearing and spindle, installed a thrust plate, dampened the bearing carriage and top plate, installed a solid Walnut Arm Board, and mounted the Jelco Arm.
Regards,
Jim

[ehoove]

I have mounted the TD150 in the plinth to check measurments and to make sure all controls are operable. Alas I must make an adjustment to the plinth to allow the speed on off control to function properly, and complete the final sanding and finish work to the plinth. however all seems to be working well and I hoope the plinth turns out nice after the final sanding and top coat are completed.

[ehoove]

Jim...sweet, let us know how it sounds.

Dave

Dave,
I certainly will. I plan to run a Denon DL103r in the Jelco.
Regards,
Jim

[jdandy]

Jim.......Your TD-150 project is looking very good. It is fun to breath new life into vintage equipment. That poor dining room table is taking a beating, though. :D

[ehoove]

Thats what protective covers are for. :^)
Regards,
Jim

[ehoove]

I have been working on a Thorens TD150 I bought many months ago, and finally got it singing in the vintage rig this morning. Sounds phenominal with the DL103R/Jelco 370 variant arm. Tracks faultlessly, and has amazing attack and decay, with a very black background. I have already started a new plinth of the same style that will be finished in Piano Black Gloss laquer, as I am not satisfied with my first poly refinishing attempt. Here is a pic!
Regards,
Jim

[jdandy]

Jim.......I think you have done a great job. The turntable is beautiful.


http://audioaficionado.org/attachments/turntables/9072d1295625558-thorens-td150-upgrade-modification-dscn3119.jpg

[ehoove]

Jim.......I think you have done a great job. The turntable is beautiful.


http://audioaficionado.org/attachments/turntables/9072d1295625558-thorens-td150-upgrade-modification-dscn3119.jpg

Thanks Dan, especially from you it means alot!
Regards,
Jim

[ronenash]

Hi Jim,

I also love vintage Thorens tables and have a TD125MK2 that I re-built. One thing I did not figure out how to do is polishing the platter to high gloss. Any tips/Instructions you can give me?

Thanks
ronenash

[ehoove]

Ronenash,

I started with Brasso to get the crude off as mine was not in good shape, then 600 grit wet sand paper, and worked my way up to 1500 grit which looked pretty good. To get to the level you see, a buffing wheel was my final step, then fine auto polish (Clear Coat), and finally a good coat of carnuba wax. Others have sprayed theirs with clear gloss lacquer instead of the wax.
Regards,
Jim

[f1 fan]

Jim...that's a beautiful 'table and I bet it sounds as good as it looks. You have a talent my friend;) btw, that's also a fine looking receiver you have.

Dave

[ronenash]

Thanks Jim
I will try this.

[ehoove]

Thanks Jim
I will try this.

It really does dress up the table IMHO
Regards,
Jim