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Winding a machine with a defective ratchet catch can have painful consequences :

Recently my regulator clock kicked back and gave me the clock equivalent of a Ford fracture on my thumb. Still have the bruise and a slight scuff from it. I can't imagine how much fun of phonograph crank would be.

colmike1 wrote:Recently my regulator clock kicked back and gave me the clock equivalent of a Ford fracture on my thumb. Still have the bruise and a slight scuff from it. I can't imagine how much fun of phonograph crank would be.

It HURTS. Ever since I experienced it I always make sure the ratchet pawl has caught properly before letting go of the crank. Pain is a powerful teacher.

Andreas

That happened to me when I first started collecting. Fortunately, I pulled my hand away and didn't get hurt. But the motor sure did!!! Had to get new springs in the motor, and other repairs. In the cartoon, it looks like the little scamp kicked Pa, and Pa jumped away . I hope Pa gave this kid a dose of his own medicine!!!
Harvey Kravitz

alang wrote:

colmike1 wrote:Recently my regulator clock kicked back and gave me the clock equivalent of a Ford fracture on my thumb. Still have the bruise and a slight scuff from it. I can't imagine how much fun of phonograph crank would be.

It HURTS. Ever since I experienced it I always make sure the ratchet pawl has caught properly before letting go of the crank. Pain is a powerful teacher.

Andreas

Had an Edison crank unload on me once and it still hurts thinking about it. I'm with you alang ....... Bill K

Collectors should be careful and definitely keep their reproducers far away from these...

colmike1 wrote:Recently my regulator clock kicked back and gave me the clock equivalent of a Ford fracture on my thumb. Still have the bruise and a slight scuff from it. I can't imagine how much fun of phonograph crank would be.

My mantle clock key whacked my thumb when the clicker failed. About the same as hitting your thumb with a hammer... several times in a row rapidly!

Number One offender: 1904 Edison Standard A. Who would have suspected such big issues from such a small crank?
Number two offender: 1914 Victrola. Sounds like an old car running, kicks like starting one. Now much safer with a shot of oil on the click.

The pawl on my "new style" Edison Model A will not catch when cranked, even though I have cleaned and lubed it. What can I do to fix it? Thanks, Roy

I had that experience with an Amberola 30. I was amazed at the number of times I was smacked before I got my hand in the clear!

Jerry B.