Garrad 401 service expert in San Francisco Area

There is not too much that can go wrong with the 401, they are built like a tank. Get some good oil for the spindle (I use synthetic from Northwest Analog in the UK). If you can, lube the motor bearings with some good sewing machine oil.

I believe the 401 will last one hundred years or more with proper care. Aftermarket idler wheels and bearing/spindle assemblies are available, though bearing/spindles can be very pricey).

Enjoy your fine turntable. Regards,
Dan 

Michel, I bought some fairly inexpensive 1877 brand cables. They haven't seemed to be a bottleneck for attaining good sound. I did pop for some Synergistic Research cables (they had to be fairly long at around eight feet to reach from my phono pre to my line stage). Probably my most expensive cable at around $800 for the pair.

Regards,
Dan