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 modern xref for Commonwealth Electronics turntable oils
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 Return to top of page · Post #: 1 · Written at 9:35:48 PM on 12 February 2022.
FatJ's Gravatar
 FatJ
 Location: Hobart, TAS
 Member since 22 October 2021
 Member #: 2469
 Postcount: 5

Hello everyone

I'm working on a Commonwealth Electronics 12A transcription turntable. I have the original manual which mentions the correct lubricants namely Vactra Medium heavy oil.

It would appear since the 1950s vactra has split into 4 numbered variants. Does anyone know which Vactra I should use for motor lubrication, and where I can get small quantities in Hobart?

Alternatively what other oil (spec, brand etc) could I use instead of the vactra oil?

Many thanks
John


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 2 · Written at 11:06:33 PM on 12 February 2022.
GTC's avatar
 GTC
 Location: Sydney, NSW
 Member since 28 January 2011
 Member #: 823
 Postcount: 6761

According to Mobil's web site, Vactra Medium heavy is a viscosity 68 oil:

https://www.mobil.com/en/lubricants/for-businesses/industrial/lubricants/products/products/mobil-vactra-oil-heavy-medium

Try local hydraulic parts suppliers, as it seems to be commonly used in hydraulic applications.
 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 3 · Written at 4:39:41 PM on 13 February 2022.
Johnny's avatar
 Johnny
 Location: Hobart, TAS
 Member since 31 July 2016
 Member #: 1959
 Postcount: 563

Automotive differential oils use that sort of viscosity, but I guess FatJ knows that.
It’s what I would use, normal gear oil.
JJ
 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 4 · Written at 7:17:13 PM on 13 February 2022.
FatJ's Gravatar
 FatJ
 Location: Hobart, TAS
 Member since 22 October 2021
 Member #: 2469
 Postcount: 5

Thanks Johnny and GTC, Penrite makes an ISO68 in litre bottles, so I'll get one of those, Australian made as well. Should allow me to do 100+ Commonwealth decks!

thanks for your help
 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 5 · Written at 10:41:34 PM on 13 February 2022.
FatJ's Gravatar
 FatJ
 Location: Hobart, TAS
 Member since 22 October 2021
 Member #: 2469
 Postcount: 5

And as you know johnny I really like to use the right thing if I possibly can. I'm definitely a 1 x 220ohm resistor man, not a 2 x 110ohm in series man!
 
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