@porchlight1 I appreciate you writing all of that down and saving me the trouble. I have a couple of comments:
1. I love the Thorens TD-124 and have rebuild several of them. The thing I liked the least was the analog speed control system (strobe). They always wander - some more, some less. But it's often noticeable, especially if you compare one to a speed controlled TD-124. After the first two I always removed the analog control parts and installed a Keystrobe unit. Yes, it's digital. Get over it and listen. A stable platter doesn't sound different, just better. Way better. I have no financial interest in this company but IMO this is the single best improvement you can make to a TD-124 or Garrard 301. Keystrobe
2. I tried rebuilding a couple of TD-121s and stopped. They look like a TD-124 but they aren't. They seem to be made "less good" and were not made to the same tolerances as the TD-124. The two I rebuilt sounded good but not great. My two cents worth: buy a 124 or go in another direction.