Packard-Bell RPC-39 Solid State Stereo c. 1966

In addition to Ron's advice, what you describe is typical of a failing ceramic cart -which is what your machine has given the flipover stylus. Ceramics dry out and their generating element can brake due to rough handling.

If possible, lift the arm vertical and take a clear pic of the cartridge. With that we can give a more accurate recommendation for a replacement.

Rob/NYC

Thanks Rob and Ron! Here are some pics of the arm.. I took the cartridge out and blew the hint with some compressed air and seems to be playing fine again.

Also, I'd like to buy replacement stylus' if you anyone has a lead to that. I've come up with nothing. Thanks again.

Read "newbie help"--above
Ron Rich

I have this exact console. I need to replace the needle and I'll be the first to admit, i have zero skills in this area. I also have the same problem the original poster had in that the needle won't fit easily into the cradle provided. It seems to have a very small lip in the front and groove in the back but they won't hold the needle. My local repair man has Macgyver'd it with some scotch tape but I'd like something a little more legit.

I also have skipping and skating issues but I'm not sure I'm up to tackling that problem myself.

Could someone please tell me what needle to buy?

Thank you for the help
d

Hello, just bought the exact same model as you have here. I cannot get it to power up, not really sure where to start. Any ideas as where to start? Cheers, Joe

zenarrow wrote:Hello, just bought the exact same model as you have here. I cannot get it to power up, not really sure where to start. Any ideas as where to start? Cheers, Joe

That's an impossible question even for ME an experienced service tech, to answer.
Variables could be endless if someone was inside putzing around.
To quess would be futile.
Only an experienced tech can diagnose and correct the problem(s), and we're scarce these days.
Nevertheless, avoid plugging it in before repairs are done.