Our company provides a service where we assist customers in buying vintage audio equipment from online marketplaces and other sellers. We arrange shipping to our facility, restore the unit, and then deliver it to the customer. It’s almost like taking a trip back in time to buy a brand new unit! This post documents the unboxing of a Beogram 4002 (5513) turntable purchased on eBay from an Arizona seller for a customer in Portugal.

Having seen my share of shipping mishaps, I sent the seller a specially designed double-boxed shipping container and a link to our instructional packaging video. I’m happy to share that the seller followed the video’s guidance, and the unit arrived safely. Here are some photos of their excellent packaging:

They took all the necessary precautions: transport locks were engaged, the platter was packaged separately, the RPM trimmer panel was taped down, the arm was secured, and the dust cover was protected. I immediately noticed some small plastic pieces that had broken off:

Many Beogram turntables utilize plexiglass washers, which are prone to this type of breakage. Thankfully, these can be easily replaced with 3D-printed replicas from the Beolover Shapeways store.

So far, so good! However, when I closed the dust cover, I noticed the hinges were cracked:

I carefully removed the dust cover to avoid further damage and took a closer look.

I then removed the aluminum trim securing the other side of the hinge and detached it:

This side was also cracked, and it likely wouldn’t have survived another opening and closing. These cracks are common with 4002 dust covers and often happen during shipping. Fortunately, this is usually fixable with laser-cut plexiglass patches.

On a positive note, the rest of the Beogram is in excellent shape:

The aluminum panels and platter are nearly flawless; however, the keypad has the typical wear on the start button:

The damaged coating can be restored, and this area will look like new again.

Internally, the Beogram appears untouched, which is ideal for restoration:

When powered on, the tonearm moved to its starting position, and the solenoid engaged. This indicated a potentially smooth restoration. However, the platter’s DC motor emitted a loud squeal when starting, suggesting dried-out bearings. This will be resolved by disassembling and lubricating the motor bearings.

It seems all of the cabinet guidance washers are missing:

Beogram 4002 units with deteriorated plastic washers often also have fragile orange transport lock bushings:

These will also be replaced during the restoration, especially considering the turntable has another 5,000 miles to travel, and functional transport locks are critical.

Another positive is the plinth, which is also in excellent condition. The front corners, which are often problematic, are in good shape:

The right corner has a few white marks:

But these should polish out with a magic eraser.

I also tested the included MMC20 EN cartridge, which was safely shipped in the provided MMC storage box:

Sellers often leave the cartridge on the tonearm during shipping, which can damage the delicate cantilever. Thankfully, that wasn’t the case here. I played a record with it on a Beogram 4000, and it sounded quite good. These cartridge boxes are available to other enthusiasts - just get in touch. They’re a great way to keep your cartridges organized and protected.

Overall, this Beogram is in fantastic condition and will make a great restoration project!