Tonearm Technics SL 1700

the cartridge it self has started rubbing the record

Is this your way of saying its not tracking?

Sounds to me that the vtf could have changed drastically.
If a LOT more than it should be it will deflect the stylus enough to let the cartridge body actually touch the vinyl.
First thing I would check is your actual vtf before anything else.

Do not ask how I know........

😞😞😞😞

Too much tracking force or broken suspension? The SL-1700mk2 has adjustable tonearm height, not sure about the mk1.