I just purchases a Technics 1200 turntable for $70.00. I have found a problem, at the end of the album, the arm does not auto return, but just stays on the album. Could this be a simple problem, operator error or stupidity, or require a major fix.

It's probably some kind of mechanical problem. Perhaps something bent out of place.

I have found a photo which is the underside of the model. You can compare it with yours and see if it looks the same. If it doesn't (assuming it is the same model) then you have found the problem.
http://www.vinylengine.com/turntable_forum/gallery/image.php?mode=large&image_id=30141

the anti-skate is set wrong, this stops the arm skatting on to the label in the middle of the record & destroying your stylus tip.

Hi Lisa, its a bit of a long shot however try this. With the turntable powered of manually rotate the platter approx 12 times to reset the auto operation back to default. John styluscity.com

of course this is adjustable but needs a good hand for it and a service manual would be great...

hi, there is a rubber grommet at the base of the tonearm on the left side. Remove and insert a flat blade screw driver. Adjust and test until remedied. Cheers John. Stylus City.

it's a "manual" turntable so this is normal. You would need to buy an "automatic" turntable to have the arm return back when done.

I found your manuals below:

Technics:

http://www.givemefile.net/manuals/musical_instruments/technics/sl-dz1200.html

Pioneer:

http://www.nodevice.com/user_manual/pioneer/dj_mixer/djm-600.html

the auto stop mechanism needs adjusting

Your tonearm might be damaged.

- OPTiC

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Hi
Check that the cuing lift isn't touching the arm as it gets to the end of the record.

John w