How old is the belt and when was it last lubricated?
I am not familiar with the acrylic platter, never had one or a need for even considering changing my platter out. Trying it first sounds like a good idea. Hard to imagine the small force of the rock being dragged thru the little canyons will make the vinyl slip, tho. I suppose if acrylic is so slick as to allow such then perhaps a clamp or mat would be in order. Waiting sucks, eh?