SME 30/2 Controller

SME not getting back to me. Distributor has no number and so far no response. Cant find a SME dealer. Hoped some one would have an answer. Music Direct sell but has no knowledge either.

Thanks for info. It was my understanding that the new controllers offered better speed control and sounded better. Is this not the case ?

 My Koetsu Rosewood sig is being rebuilt and will be back in 3-4 months. I now know it’s a low compliance cartridge. Will it be okay on the Series V arm?

 I have a Benz Cardas Heart but that to needs to be rebuilt. I am just getting back into vinyl. Any thoughts appreciated. 
Peter
 

Thanks for input. Everything is wrapped in plastic so maybe belt is fine. Table is 2004 model.  As to weather locked down properly not sure. I have not removed it yet. I’m waiting for cartridge. 
 I did notice a small amount of oil around top plate of the shaft hole/motor bearing. Very small amount in a circular shape. Do I need to order oil and if so how do you know how much to add? 
 
 
 

Thanks Pete do you know the type of oil for the shaft or get that from SME ? Is there a way to gage if shaft needs oil ?

1 drop on motor even after no use since 2009?

Thanks everyone for your input. I am looking forward to listening to 30/2. The guidance you’ve all given me has helped ease my mind. I will use the existing controller as it seems buying a newer version yields few improvements. 
 Looks like all the tools etc are in the tonearm box. I will use the spare o-ring to get my measurements. The o-rings are offered in many materials, any input as to which is proper? 
 Thanks,

 Peter

So, I discovered a little bit of the hydraulic fluid at base of the pillar.  Is this a big issue and if so serviceable?
 No reply from SME.  I have now sent 4 inquires.  I have never had this poor of service from a company so, I’m at a loss of words. 
 

The sub chassis was not locked down in transport but the it was lowered all the way down. As a result hydraulic fluid present. Everything else is fine. Bearing dead quite with  stethoscope and motor no issues.
 Any guidance on fluid leak? Cleaned everything up and so far nothing more has has appeared. Is this a serious issue and what would be involved if needed attention?
Thanks  

Update on fluid leak. After studying and thinking long and hard,I think I know what happened. When sub chassis was raised to its limits and released quickly a little bit of oil due to the sudden pressure of the quick release was forced out. After 2 days no fluid present and the hydraulic feel of all 4 posts seems fine. 
 Since it was such a small amount of fluid it seems fine. I will assume at this point with no additional appearance of fluid all is well.

 Thanks everyone for your input. It really guided me through the process. 

Update : if you don’t lock the sub chassis down the suspension dashpot does not seal. As a result the dampening fluid leaked out and ran down the chassis onto the supporting feet.  I removed the sub chassis cleaned up all the mess.  
 The issue is I need to add more dampening fluid. SME provides no support as multiple emails go unanswered. Does anyone know fluid is used ?                    Thanks,

 Peter

SME did contact me and I got it straightened out. 
 They do call the suspension system dash pots.  I have the fluid on order and a diagram for fill height. 
 The power/controllers are not being sold as upgrades. I guess I am using the original. 
 It was a stressful situation, in the end there was no damage and fluid was all that was needed. I did order suspension bands from 3rd party. They are close but I’m going to order another set that is a tad different.
  

Thanks for the info Tobermorey. I got the fluid ordered only a small amount leaked from 1 dash pot and the instruction for proper level of fill. My serial # is older but I have grey platter. 
 I am waiting on my Rosewood Sig to be rebuilt.  I hope it works with  SME V tonearm. It’s a low compliance cartridge and I have been told it’s not going to be a correct match. 
 

Platter color is if no significance.  The mat is exactly the same material. 

Confused less suspension Vs increased isolation on increased gap? Which is it?

I have already taken the sub-chassis apart to see where the fluid came from. I think I can get enough gap with a syringe and a rubber hose end to add to my dash pot. 
Regarding height and isolation no clue! I’ll just set it to the spacer level. 
 The mystery for me is the effect a new controller would have presented.SME will not sell controllers so it’s a mute point. Personally not allowing end users updates or upgrades is insane.  
 It’s SME’s decision but giving up revenue stream seems to be a poor decision.  Not only does it cost them on bottom line but, I think end users will begin to jump ship. 

PG was there are noticeable difference between the 2 controllers? Is so what did the new controller add? 

The only way to deal with it is to order Topping Oil for the dash pots from SME. 
You will need to fill the pots to the required height (SME can provide drawing showing fill level). The upper section will need to be lifted off. This requires o-rings, platter, underside rubber counter pull belt and tower supports removed. 
 SME had procedure for all of this. They will email you pdf.  It’s actually very easy but requires 3 people or setting up a support to rest plinth on. 
 If it’s only a slight amount that leaked out don’t bother. 
 I had a lot that came out of 1 pot only. Don’t freak out if it’s just a small amount around the base of the pillar. 

Also unscrew the grounding wire from the post!