Cartridge mounting woes

Thanks for all of the responses. I appreciate your willingness to share your creativity and expertise.

I think the approach with set screws is worth a try, and I'm planning to start there; small investment, very little downside. From there, perhaps to try a cartridge that will mount more easily, per @mijostyn .

@elliottbnewcombjr Thanks for sharing the USAM post; the modification is a possibility (probably beyond my capability). The turntable ad your linked raises the awareness that perhaps a 698 turntable is worth less than I thought. Again, thanks to all.

@mijostyn Thanks for the excellent suggestion. The 698 headshell is made of plastic and is very brittle (bought it in 1977!); I’d be really concerned about fabricating it as you describe. Also, the 698 in original condition is probably worth a fair sum if I were to sell it to a collector.

@lewm The 698 headshell has two captive nuts that receive the connecting screws. Your point is well taken, the nuts could twist during cartridge installation and break the headshell. Thanks for your observations and recommendation.

Given the potential value of the turntable to a collector in stock condition, maybe the best option is to carefully install a new tone arm and put the original aside.

@lexphin McMaster-Carr looks impressive.Set screws appear to be what I need. Thanks.