Time to Clamp Down

I have several record clamps that I use with my turntables, but I have a Thorens TD-160 with a spindle that is too short for a clamp to 'grab'. I have a very heavy turntable/record weight that probably weighs around 24 ounces, quite heavy. I would have no problem using that on one of my direct-drive tables, but I am skittish about using it on the belt-drive TD-160. Logic tells me it would put an extra-heavy load on the motor, causing undue wear.....is that a valid concern or not? The spindle clears the record just enough for this monster weight to work and right now it's my only option.