Turntable Hinge

Improving flawed design while adapting for additive manufacture

Download the model files here: https://www.printables.com/model/1211029-dustcover-hinge-for-thorens-turntables

Year: 2025

Printed pieces

Assembly

Problem

The original hinges that shipped with many of the TD-16x series turntables by the German manufacturer, Thorens were poorly designed, to the extent that few working examples exist. So, not only were they designed poorly for injection molding, the design is no better when made with additive manufacturing.

The original injection-molded hinge on my own Thorens TD-165 was missing/broken. I first purchased a reproduction, which immediately failed, then downloaded one of the free models circulating the internet (pictured at right), and it failed as well.

Strategy

I designed a new hinge from scratch, taking dimensions directly from my own TD-165 turntable, and optimizing for additive manufacture, strength, and ease of use, with the intention of selling a few of them. I also tightened up the tolerances for better user ‘feel’.

Design Features:

The part is now asymmetrical, with one side of the hinge pin flush with the side of the clip, so the part can be printed on it's side with minimal support material, and layers aligned correctly for maximum strength in the top clip.

The hinge pin itself is increased in diameter to 8mm, helping prevent it from shearing away at the base, and lowering the contact force at the joint.

On the bottom hinge, the spring clip was redesigned to prevent shearing off it its base, while allowing the part to be printed with correct layer orientation elsewhere.

The clips which attach the hinge to the turntable plinth and cover are pre-tensioned, to give better engagement and less 'slop'.

The actuating nub for the release lever has been moved to the top of the spring clip, giving more mechanical advantage, allowing the use of a stronger, more resilient spring. This also has the effect of allowing the turntable cover to be released int eh raised or lowered position. The original design could not be removed while the cover was in a raised position. I know find this is actually the easier of two ways.

An optional 2mm steel pain can be press-fit into the center of the hinge for added slong-term strength.

The spring clip on the base hinge is designed with integral supports, which simplifies manufacture. After printing, it can be broken free with a small tool, or by hand.

All tolerances have been reduced as much as possible, to give a more premium feel, as these turntables are now highly regarded vintage items.

Lastly, the color, shape and overall dimensions of the hinge were kept reasonably close to the original, so as not to draw attention.