VE-XVII vs VV-XVII

[oldtvsandtoys]

I have a VV-XVII and just bought a VE-XVII, I will be only keeping one. I know they made about 20,000 of the VV-XVII and only 2,500 of the VE-XVII. Both cabinets are nice. But which one is the keeper? Does the rarer VE-XVII being electric help or hurt it?

[Jerry B.]

I assume both machines are mahogany and in about equal condition. Collectors assign no greater value to the much more unusual VE models. I would keep the much more unusual and desirable VV-XVIII. In truth I don't think it's even close. Keep the XVIII you lucky dog.

Jerry Blais

Please disregard this reply. I misread the initial post and my reply does not apply. Sorry! Jerry Blais

[barnettrp21122]

If both 17's are in excellent running condition either would be a good choice to keep, IMO. If you play a lot of records in one sitting the electric is nice.
The motor may need servicing if it hasn't been in operation recently. I have a fine contact who does wonderful work.
Electrics, especially the ones with universal motors will need a bit more periodic maintenance, in my experience.
I play my VE XVI more than any other!
Bob

[oldtvsandtoys]

I assume both machines are mahogany and in about equal condition. Collectors assign no greater value to the much more unusual VE models. I would keep the much more unusual and desirable VV-XVIII. In truth I don't think it's even close. Keep the XVIII you lucky dog.

Jerry Blais

I dont have a VV-XVIII

[estott]

If the electric motor is in running condition, or gets properly serviced, keep it. You may be glad of it in the long run.

[wjw]

If you play lots of records, I'm with Bob, the VE is the keeper.
Otherwise the spring motor has more appeal to most people.
-bill

[Jerry B.]

I dont have a VV-XVIII

My mistake! Maybe I've inhaled too much paint remover fumes. In Oregon it has warmed up to nearly sixty and I've been busy working on projects. I could have sworn you were debating between a XVII and a XVIII. Jerry Blais

[Django]

If you can't, or don't want to keep both, keep the one that you like best. I have always considered cranking the machine to be part of the charm and not an inconvenience, (45 years of cranking has not changed this). From my perspective as a former Tool and Die Maker and presently a Mechanical Engineer, the choice is easy. An Electrical Engineer or Radio collector would likely feel differently.

Are they both the same wood? Are they Mahogany? Are they both in approximately the same condition? These are unknowns to us, so my opinion is based on incomplete data. Speaking for myself, I enjoy seeing the machines.

[oldtvsandtoys]

Does anyone sell parts to rebuild the motor. Will post pictures after I pick up the ve xvii. Looks like a nice machine.

[barnettrp21122]

There are supply houses that have different sizes of electric motor brushes and other items. When you have a closer look at your motor setup please feel free to pm me.
Often it's the motor armature (which rotates while in contact with the two brushes) that needs a good cleaning.
There are some basic universal electric motor issues covered in the book "Look For The Dog."
Other components are the typical motor governor and spindle gears.
A full overhaul for mine cost around $140.00 from a good small electric motor company I've dealt with several times.
Bob