New WM-DD center gear prototype is here (EDIT - final version is here)

Here is small update.
I just got the image of the new version of support ring from my producer. I think it is OK, final production can start.

 

And here is short video of new gear prototype in action



I tried to amplify sound of the mechanics as much as possible, ti identify any issues. In reality, it is silent.

Adding 3 screws (6 screw version) will help fit gear and support ring very tightly and accurate to the original metal disc. I expect smoother run.

I have to do quite lot of work to test prototypes of v2 gears in several walkmans.

 

Ah of course – now I see how you need wider screw heads. Wow – to see that new center gear in action is just awesome. So silent and smooth. Great work!

 

Is it ok if I send you my DD33 now, for repair? It probably won't arrive until the gears are ready anyway.

 

The video is sort of mesmerizing and the gear is very silent; great work !

 

Excellent work Marian .

 

Awesome accomplishment!!!!
Maybe I should start looking for my first (ever!) DD Walkman... Lived on the wrong side of The Wall when they were in production

 

Amazing work Marian....

 

This is amazing! I would like to contribute as well. I have recently bought a D3 that is in need of a refurb. This would turn that refurb into a full-on restoration, and that machine is worth it.

 

Jorge
Your first DD? Really? That Will cause a schock..... Do you mean that you are living in the former east Germany? I wonder if the DDR also had walkmans.....

 

Check your PM's

 

??????

 

Another small update: support rings were produced and were shipped to my address today, using DHL express. They should be here at the beginning of the next week.
Then I'm able to test them in at least four DD walkmans, to confirm final gear design and dimensions.

 

Not in GDR but pretty close, in Ukraine. Its a good question if any Walkmans ever been produced anywhere in the Soviet block, do not remember ever seeing any... Maybe @mihokm knows. There was a boombox on ebay produced in USSR, horrible little thingy. I would have bought it for sentimental reasons, but not for $700 asking price!

 

Looking cool!

http://m.benl.ebay.be/itm/SOVIET-BO...te-Vintage-Rare-USSR-/222464254767?nav=SEARCH

 

No no no, I meant, Marian! Sorry for the confusion.

 

Upper rings are here. I think they're done very well but I need to test them.

Next step:
I will prepare/check final technical drawing of new plastic gears. I have to test old version of plastic gears with new upper rings. I need to put them to several walkmans. New design has to work well in all of them.
Hopefully, I can manage it all during weekend.

 

Yay! So much work … I am really grateful. Looking forward testing them myself

 

Excellent work Marian - how can I send a bit of $$$ to help with this amazing project? Is it the same PayPal as you use when I buy my belts off you on ebay?

Part of me hopes that Sony find out about this and recognise your skill and persistence!