Looking for guidance with older VPI HW-19 tables


I'm looking for a table without a tonearm. I'll be mounting a Hadcock GH 228.

I'm not married to the idea of a VPI HW-19, but they're common in the classifieds and seem to offer a good bang for the buck. However, I'm not familiar with all the variations: Mk i, ii, iv, etc. Are there particular models or upgrades I should look for? Any guidance would be appreciated.

I don't think the HW-19 series is being supported by VPI anymore, which brings up the question whether parts (like the bearing) will eventually become unavailable.

And speaking of bearings... how do you determine if it's good? Buying a used table is like buying a used car. There might be problems lurking under the hood. Do you have any suggestions on how to flesh this out before hand?

Many thanks!
mingles
My advice is to search for an un-sprung table.My friend had the MKIII and moved to another that was un-sprung and his sound improved drastically.With the economy as it is,there will be plenty of deals to be had.
You do NOT have to use the springs that come with the MKIII or MKIV VPI! One of the best mods you can do is use either the sorbothane pucks from the VPI Junior or try to find a set of SIMS Navcomm Silencers. I use the SIMS on my MKIII and LOVE what this table does. There are several other "puck type" units you can use. Try Audio Asylum for MANY mods for the HW series of VPI tables.

VPI still supports the HW series, but with limited parts. Here is the link:

http://www.vpiindustries.com/products_hw19.htm
I have a MK II 1/2 (I'll explain) which I'm looking to sell. Have all the springs but I also experimented with the "noodles" in place of the springs and instead of the feet. You can have those too.Email me and I'll give you more info on my experiences.
Also try and get one with the lead platter (old TNT platter) its really good Perhaps the Mk4 is the best to go for
Read Arthur Salvatore site around the HW19 plenty of good avice there