I think perhaps it was out of the ladies control, Because she said to me"" oh pete it was so sad to see it go on the throw out""
I didnt know you were working on a 11 77 Ian.
Im restoring a 11 77 and Ive just finished rebuilding the RC 121 Turntable for it. I had too completely strip it and re-spray it, plus it was seized rock solid, but now its like new .I fine with turntables because their mechanical.
I replaced the Grill cloth with a 1960 wheat colour and it looks great , I bought the Grill cloth off ebay for 40 bucks .
The 11 77 11 78 is a beautiful unit with classic looks and that great old sound ,I just love this one.
Pete

I might get you to finish setting up the Garrard RC121Mk2 that I completely stripped and reassembled (seized like yours) but I didn't need to repaint mine, surprisingly. After I stripped it and washed everything it looks like new. It runs but a few things don't work the way they should.

In return for fixing the Pye that I'm more at home with!

Yep , I will have a crack at that. Might be fun ,Im no expert but Ive done a few turntables.
The 121 is a temperamental thing , but their nice when up and running and you can get that tracking weight down on the 121.
Did you get caught out removing the spidle, It has a hidden draft that is under the C clip on the gear drive shaft. Its very well hidden and many guys have taken to them with hammers in pure frustration. .
Most of these turntables are not worn out , their all just frozen up from the past years not being used.
Yeah count me in Ian
Pete