Excessive Wow & Flutter in Sony WM-2 (0.78% RMS with 8Hz Spike)

A quick update: I couldn't completely disassemble the motor, as I didn't want to risk damaging it. Instead, I removed it from the chassis, pulled it from its metal casing, and removed the rubber gasket to get better access to the shaft. From there, I did the usual routine—a drop of oil on the shaft, then ran it on a DC power supply for an hour.

Afterward, I took the mechanism apart again (for the umpteenth time!), cleaned and relubed it, and reassembled everything. The current draw went right back to normal! I'm not entirely sure what caused the spike in the first place, but whatever it was, it was most likely mechanical. It’s challenging to pin down the exact mechanical culprit in this model. One thing I have noticed, though, is that with more cumulative playtime, the flutter seems to be a little less audible—sometimes I can't even hear it for the duration of an entire side.

I have two quick questions for the group: 1 - Autostop Lever Lubrication: How do you (and do you?) typically lubricate the autostop lever—are there any specific contact points? 2 - Supply (REW) Spindle Height: What is the correct height for the supply-side spindle? Should it match the height of the take-up/play spindle, or should it be set specifically to minimize back tension against that lower spring? Unfortunately, I can't upload any images to point out the specific areas in question. Any advice or target measurements would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

 

I don't lubricate the autostop lever.
As for the supply reel, set the height so it has ~0.05-0.1mm of play, main idea being it moves freely.
Doesn't need to be matched to the takeup side, which play cannot be adjusted it's fixed by the length of the shaft and depth of hex and reel holes.

 

@Valentin, thank you! Perfect - two things to worry less about.