Replacing the "thrust disc" on Avenger Reference TT
 

I purchased a VPI Avenger one year ago and had stumbled across this on the MusicDirect. I recall seeing similar language elsewhere, perhaps the VPI website.

"VPI's Latest Breakthrough: The Magnetic Drive System
VPI's magnetic drive system is unique to Avenger Reference. The drive platter is mounted to the 5/8" center shaft, which goes through both platters and deep into the bottom of the bearing assembly. The bottom bearing is an oil bath, and the PEEK thrust disc on the bottom bearing takes the full 30 pounds total of both platters. Hence, the thrust disc is replaceable and should be changed every year so constantly get the sound of a new 'table. The top platter, or slave platter, rests in a PTFE Super Lube inverted bearing with almost zero rotational motion so that there is no wear on the thrust disc. Powerful magnets from the drive platter grab the magnets in the slave platter and send it rotating noiselessly with a beautifully damped motion. Wow and flutter levels are exceptionally low. The Lyra Atlas cartridge, which touts very powerful Alnico magnets, has no reaction at all to the platter magnets. Neither does the Ortofon A95, Shure Ultra 500, Soundsmith Hyperion, or any other top cartridge VPI has tried." (emphasis added) https://www.musicdirect.com/turntabl...ence-turntable

I called VPI last week and the gentleman who answered the phone had no idea what I was talking about. He put me on hold and consulted with his colleagues, then told me this was a special order and they did not think this was necessary. However, the above verbiage is almost certainly direct from VPI. So now I have no idea if this is really accurate. My conversation with the guy from VPI would indicate this is not necessary, but again he seemed to have no idea what I was talking about. Not sure if anyone else has some insight on this issue
Thanks in advance.

What's the manual say?

Best Sir,

Bob

I'd post this question on the VPI Forum. Harry is back from vacation and I'm sure can answer as well as Brent (BRF)

Nothing at all in this regard. So, probably an error, or they changed their minds regarding the necessity of this.

Tim - That thought occurred to me too. If VPI was quizzical about your question, I'd consider it a mute point & march on. They'd know.

Best Sir,

Bob

Thanks Bob
March I will

Tim,

Below is a thread from the VPI form where Veteran Poster BRF did his annual maintence to his HRX with the MAGDrive / Rim Drive platter which included replacing the thrust disc.

http://vpiforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=12&t=9686

Thank you. I will read it through tonight.

Just a thought, but can't you just look at it and see if there is any wear? Reason I ask, is that I went through some teething issues with my table's thrust plate and eventually had some made from a tougher material. I had to examine my table's thrust plate often, until I found the solution. Good luck.

I had seen a post on Audiogon where Matt posted that the bearing was expected to last 5-10 years in normal use.

George