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.

s.ara.h.s.agar.eno, I was not aware of recurring issues w/ Aries platter concerning warping, vibrations or other issues you mention. I've had 2 major issues with my Aries; 1) speed, 2) the worn bearing. I had issues with both the SDS and ADS. Eventually after investigating other speed controllers, I worked with SOTA/Phoenix Engineering in their development of their Eclipse series. I sent them my motor pod and they used it in development of the motor to be used with the Condor PSU in combination with the Roadrunner. I already had the Roadrunner and replaced the VPI motor and ADS with the Eclipse motor and Condor PSU. For me, this system provides the startup and speed consistency I desired. After Harry repaired my bearing, I took SgreenP's advice and cleaned the bushing and tower with Hoppe's 9. It made a huge difference and precluded the necessity of using any bearing lube. Previously, I only used the VPI lube but no longer use anything. I just clean with Hoppe's 9 and have no issues.

SgreenP - thank you for the suggestion of the Hoppe's 9 for cleaning the bearing and tower. Subsequent to my original post I sent the platter to VPI. Harry was able to replace the cup in the platter and I have just received it back and will try it out later today. Harry's suggestion, since my platter has the bronze?/brass? sleeve, is to use little or none of their bearing lube going forward. I'll try it without and also try cleaning with Hoppe's 9. Thanks again...