Vintage turntable running fast, any ideas?

It's funny how these threads have a life of their own and don't go in the direction you expect. My initial thought that it was some electrical problem within the turntable, but, most of the talk has been with mechanical issues.

Of all the suggestions, I think the thick belt suggestion is the one I plan to try next. I compared the current belt with a previous worn out one and sure enough it was much thicker. Once I get the speed correct, and get a stable disk strobe pattern, I'll check out if the motor has fast/slow problems. After that, its time to enjoy the thing or drop it off at the nearest thrift shop.

One thing I have learned here is the importance of a second source to compare things. (Now reread the above sentence until you understand it.) I only found the speed problem by comparing the record to a CD copy. After a couple of albums and CDs, something didn't sound right, and that helped me find the problem. In the process of switching the turntable between my main stereo system and the TV surround system, I've found that my much more expensive stereo system has a severe bass problem! Ah yes, this never ends, does it.

Hi fi is usually a bottomless pit - but have you ever noticed that most musicains listen to things with the sonic elegance of a mice powered turntable using a 4" nail hooked up to an old tin can with a bit of string?

I have a theory on why musicians have such crappy stereo systems. From watching my violin playing brother-in-law, he uses a stereo like someone would use a hammer. All he wants from a stereo is the pace and tone of the music; mainly so he can play it himself. As such, he sees no need for an expensive system with great imaging and timbre, fast attack, etc. What's funny is that these are the same qualities he expects out of his violin!

Unless you want to play along is the speed really such a big issue ? Or does it really bug you now that you've noticed :-) ?

HiFi is like cars ... best not to go looking for problems !