Help with Akai AP L45 linear tracking turntable

I recently bought an Akai AP L45 linear tracking turntable, which is quite an amusing, and nice-sounding machine. It has one minor problem though - after starting the play mode, the arm glides over the the beginning of the record, and then takes FOREVER to drop down onto the vinyl. Is there an adjustment for this, or something that needs to be lubricated, or is this a situation that needs to go into a repair shop. I could find VERY little information about this turntable online. Thanks for the help!