But here is the catch: the TD124 is a complex electromechanical machine. It is not a plug-and-play modern Rega or Pro-Ject. It has a stepped pulley, an eddy-current brake for fine speed adjustment, a multi-layered damping system, and an intricate idler wheel mechanism.
Mobil DTE Light (ISO VG 32) or original Thorens oil for the main bearing and motor
: Ensure the rubber belt is clean and has the correct tension; too much stress can wear out motor bushings prematurely. Troubleshooting Common Issues Thorens TD124 4-Speed Belt-Idler-Drive Turntable Manual thorens td124 service manual
A major pitfall to watch for is the type of bearing bushings your specific TD-124 has. Early models used (black) bushings. These can swell over time, creating friction, causing speed instability, and eventually seizing the platter. Later models used superior Sintered Brass (bronze-colored) bushings. If you have Nylatron, it is highly recommended to have them replaced with sintered brass units by a qualified technician.
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. But here is the catch: the TD124 is
The entire turntable chassis sits on four rubber mushrooms inside its wooden plinth. Ensure these are soft and that the leveling wheels move smoothly underneath them.
Check the rubber edge of the idler wheel. If it is hard, cracked, or flat-spotted, it must be replaced or professionally dressed. Clean the rubber surface only with mild soap and water or specialized rubber cleaner—never use harsh solvents. Lubricate the sintered bearing of the idler wheel with a single drop of oil. Step 3.3: Main Platter Bearing Maintenance Mobil DTE Light (ISO VG 32) or original
Clean the shaft and internal bronze bushings with alcohol. Apply 2-3 drops of light turbine oil to the shaft and reinstall. The Idler Wheel
A genuine manual from the period often includes handwritten notes from a technician. These are priceless. But even a clean reproduction is infinitely better than nothing.
The manual remains an essential primary source. As one long-time owner notes, "there isn't to my knowledge a proper Thorens service manual" beyond this one, and it is often considered "the only reference I'd personally trust" for factory specifications.
Remove the three screws holding the bottom cap. Be prepared for old oil to drain out. Pull the main spindle shaft straight out from the top.