My original Aries platter's bearing cup is, I believe, worn to the extent it either needs repaired(if possible) or replaced by a new platter. I use exclusively VPI lube. The lube itself seems to now mysteriously disappear quickly once I clean and re-lube (< 1 month) the bearing tower and bearing cup in the platter. The height of the platter in use lowers slowly over time eventually affecting the VTA, etc.
I re-lubed the platter a week ago and the speed sensor 'dot' attached to the platter bottom is already hitting the speed sensor pickup because the platter has lowered a few millemeter.
I have called and emailed VPI about this issue but have yet to receive a call back or an return email. I need to understand my options for fixing the existing platter or replacing it before I can decide on a course of action and have this turntable running again.
I want to update my original post. I did receive a call back from VPI and Harry stepped in to take over my issue. Harry asked that I send in the platter for evaluation for a fix or replacement. He decided because the platter has a brass sleeve a new cup to replace the old one could be installed. Harry installed the cup and the platter was returned to me.
He additionally advised me that I should use very little, if any, VPI lube or any other appropriate lubrication. Based on another user's experience I purchased a small bottle of Hoppe's No.9 gun barrel cleaner to clean/lube the bearing sleeve in the platter and bearing tower on the plinth. It works excellently and I have been cleaning every few months. Doing so has also helped stabilize speed.
I want to say a huge "thank you!" to Harry and staff for their efforts to successfully remedy my platter issue.