How do you tell your Cartridge needs replacing?

You could also get a test record that has increasing modulation levels (loudness) and you could note when you hear the onset of mis-tracking and how severe is that mis-tracking.  Later, you can compare that result to what you hear when you are looking for signs of aging.  The problem with a visual inspection by even a qualified dealer is that such inspection will not reveal when the suspension is going bad.  The rubber ring around the cantilever that damps unwanted vibration can go bad even if the stylus is not played, so it is possible that the cartridge has gone bad long before wear even begins to show.

To me, listening remains the best way to determine wear. 

Not many of us have the skills and experience to determine by inspection the condition of a stylus except in the most severe cases of wear, even with a microscope designed to do the job. I include myself as lacking such skills, and I do own a suitable instrument. Send it to a reputable retipper for evaluation. I do realize it’s a bit like asking a fox to guard the hen house.

Happily Audio Technica has a program to check and clean for $40. or sell me a new replacement cartridge for less than half price

I sent my AT33PTG/II in, expect to hear from them soon.

got this response when I asked them

"Hello Elliot,

You can return it for inspection, cleaning, and testing. The cost is $40.00 plus shipping. If it is worn and needs replaced, we do offer a trade in program for moving coil cartridges. You can trade in your cartridge for a new cartridge at a discounted replacement cost. Your cartridge will be destroyed. Here is the replacement cost for a new AT33PTG/2. The cost doesn’t include the return Fed Ex shipping.

AT33PTG/2                $262.43

You will find our ATUS Service Policy, complete repair return instructions and a downloadable form to be enclosed with the repair return at: https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/support/repair-service/ .  Please provide detailed information on the problem.  We do not require a return authorization number for repair returns.  We require dated proof of purchase with the repair returns to validate all warranty claims.  Please also provide a United States, United Parcel Service (UPS) deliverable address to return the product to once repaired.

Sincerely,

Jim

 
Jim Schotts
Service Manager

If maker not around or has no service offer, you can send it to a re-builder you trust, like Steve and Ray Leung of VAS

Time flys by, I will keep a log now near my TT.

Thank you for all the great advice. Sounds like since I am concerned then I should just go ahead and get another cartridge before I regret not doing so. Now I get to research what I shall purchase. Thanks again.