So I finally got the tiny part from the manufacturer that supposedly screws into the hoop near the back of the tonearm. It cost me $2 + $11 shipping, and it's about 1/2 inch long and weighs less than a gram I would imagine.

So I attempt to install it and...it want thread! Something appears to be impeding the progress, so I got a flashlight and a magnifying glass to see what I could see. Aha! it appears that the original piece broke off inside the hole, but just the threaded part, and nothing is protruding from said hole, so I can remove it. This is the end of the line for me. I paid him via PayPal, so if I get any resistance, I'll file my claim and await the refund, although I fully expect the guy to take it back.

What next you ask? I'm buying a new one, and thanks to a certain RR member, I know just the place to go for a nice deal.

Swish - all I wanted was to play a little vinyl.