Audio Technica AT-1005 tonearm lift not staying in the up position

[old hi-fi guy]

As the title states, I have an Audio Technica AT-1005 tonearm which recently will always lower itself when the arm is parked in its rest. It has been fine for the last 2-3 years, when I bought it used, of course.

 

After lifting it up and putting a record on, it is either a race to get to the lift lever before it starts on it way down, or I have to hold the tonearm up while trying to cue it

 

Has anyone had a similar experience  or better still, advice on how and what I can do to service and revive the lifting mechanism so I no longer has to do a race or balancing act to avoid damaging my stylus or records?

 

All and any help gratefully appreciated.

[SonicArt]

A clean and new  silicon fluid may help,  there should be a flat on the lift arms internal section that pushes the lift barrel up,  when the lever is up this gives it a sort of locking feature that keeps it in the up position.  if it's worn it may need more than just servicing.

[old hi-fi guy]

Thanks for that insight. It would appear that the problem is due to what you suggest, as there is lack of any feeling of a notch when the lift arm is at to top of its travel. I guess it isn't surprising if has worn, considering the age of the arm. 

 

At some stage I will delve into how the unit can be safely taken apart (and reassembled of course!) but in the meantime I keep a careful eye on the position of the lift arm each time I cue a record.

 

I had a quick look to see if there might be a spare one offered for sale anywhere, but it appears that all the AT-1005 tonearms currently on offer do not have the lift/lower unit with any of them! Perhaps I should just be happy I have one, regardless of it being not quite perfect!

[Ian McP]

https://www.vinylengine.com/library/audio-technica/at-1005.shtml

 

Have any friends that are machinists or perhaps watchmakers? Also there may be similar after market lift mechanism that might fit.