I also own a VPI HW-19 Mk4 with the upgraded (TNT) platter, bearing, and springs. I found this upgrade SIGNIFICANTLY improved the performance of the HW-19, due to the increased mass of the platter which results in better speed stability (flywheel effect), quieter LP playback, and improved dynamics and transparency. I have the tall dustcover on my turntable, but I always remove it when playing records so the cover does not resonate.
FWIW, my suggestion is: DO NOT undo the platter upgrade -- it makes the HW-19 Mk4 a much better turntable. Instead, think about the following 3 options:
1. buy the tall dustcover (which I think is the best idea);
2. remove the low dustcover when playing LP's;
3. buy one of the after-market acrylic "shields" that sit on top of the platter and have a raised section that extends above the tonearm.
The VPI motors do not "wear out" in the literal sense -- they either run or don't run, in my experience. About 2 years ago, I called VPI and talked directly with Harry Weisfeld about this, and he said don't worry about the motor until it fails. The drive belt, however, benefits from periodic replacement, as it can stretch a bit. You can improve the performance of the belt by dusting it with baby talcum powder ever 3 months or so. (Put the belt in a small zip-lock baggie, add some talc, and shake the bag. Then remove the belt and shake off the excess talc.)
Obviously, it's your decision about whether or not to sell the TNT platter/bearings/springs and go back to the lighter platter. If you do, however, you are giving away some real performance improvements solely to avoid some inconvenience with the dustcover.
FWIW, my suggestion is: DO NOT undo the platter upgrade -- it makes the HW-19 Mk4 a much better turntable. Instead, think about the following 3 options:
1. buy the tall dustcover (which I think is the best idea);
2. remove the low dustcover when playing LP's;
3. buy one of the after-market acrylic "shields" that sit on top of the platter and have a raised section that extends above the tonearm.
The VPI motors do not "wear out" in the literal sense -- they either run or don't run, in my experience. About 2 years ago, I called VPI and talked directly with Harry Weisfeld about this, and he said don't worry about the motor until it fails. The drive belt, however, benefits from periodic replacement, as it can stretch a bit. You can improve the performance of the belt by dusting it with baby talcum powder ever 3 months or so. (Put the belt in a small zip-lock baggie, add some talc, and shake the bag. Then remove the belt and shake off the excess talc.)
Obviously, it's your decision about whether or not to sell the TNT platter/bearings/springs and go back to the lighter platter. If you do, however, you are giving away some real performance improvements solely to avoid some inconvenience with the dustcover.