VPI Scout

Have you tried calling VPI for information? I have found them typically very helpful with great customer service.

I would contact VPI for help and/or go to a high-end shop in your area.

Take a look at Pete Riggle VTA products for Rega arms. Also, check DIY motors on Ebay (Absolutely HiEnds) or Google DIY Hifi Supply.

I assume your are on a budget and have some DIY skills.

Luckily you weren't burdened with a VPI tonearm.

Good luck.

Not an EASY project.

Indeed...never take on a project that might require some effort as you may come away from the experience having learned something, and nobody wants that.

On the early Scout, the motor pod is roughly 4" x 5" x 2.5" exterior, and is extremely sturdy (steel?) with 1/2" tall cylindrical rubber feet on the bottom. The top plate has a circular mounting for the motor, which appears to be centered in both length and width dimensions. If you can buy one I'm sure you'll have better results than building one. There are other motors, such as the Teres motor which have been used to good effect on the Scout, so it might be worth checking their user forum for tips.

You can and SHOULD buy a Rega template which will show you exactly where you need to mount the tonearm relative to the center spindle. If you get this wrong, the turntable will never play right, it's one of the most critical dimensions. I'd second the recommendation for the Pete Riggle VTA adapter, which will require a larger hole, I think maybe 25mm, but I don't remember for sure. See http://www.vtaf.com/3ptmount.html for more info.

Good luck with the project. The Scout is a nice basis for learning what works, and can be built up to a very high standard.