Edison Triumph spring barrel motion

[drh]

My Triumph runs steadily when not "under load," but when I try playing a cylinder the speed goes all over the place, and it can even stall out. I took a look at the motor with the case open, and it appears that while the single-spring barrel is pretty consistent, the two-spring barrel moves very inconsistently--turns for a while, stops for a bit, turns a bit, stops a bit, etc., etc. Is that a normal sort of motion for these motors? If not, is it symptomatic of gunky grease, or am I likely facing new springs? Muchos gracias for any insights anybody can offer!

[edisonphonoworks]

Spring barrels certainly should be cleaned and re- greased I have used Mobile 1 synthetic for many years, mixed with graphite. Most do not want to take Triumph springs out and re-install them, so putting the barrels in a bucket of gas for a few days and then rinsing the springs with gas until the gas runs somewhat clear, let it sit outside on a sunny day in the sun to evaporate any gas before greasing. Grease with 3 tablesoons of grease and fine graphite. Also while you are at it, make sure the spring barrel shaft is clean and not nicked. It is normal though for the spring barrel to stop once a while then move around, that is what mine does. Too much tension on the belt, can also cause the machine to act irregularly, and dirty governor shaft, not letting it contact back down and sticks causing irregular speed. Belt tension should be tight enough where the motor turned on turns the mandrel, and does not slip;however if you stop the machine, very slight slipping and grabbing if you run the mandrel backward with your hand, any less and it slips during play, any more and play is hampered.

[MicaMonster]

It is also possible that the friction disc on the governor is gummed with oil varnish.... Keeping it from adjusting speed smoothly. I have also seen the friction leathers get spongy. This running at a normal speed at first, then slowing down as spring tension is reduced.

[Andersun]

What model Triumph do you have?

On the Triumph, the last place I would look for trouble are the springs unless one is broken. With the issue described, you need to start from the governor to the upper deck (carriage, mandrel, belt, carriage rod) or in reverse from the upper deck to the governor. The triumph springs will turn at different rates and that should not effect your ability for the machine to work properly under full load. If you have gone thru all the mechanics forward of the governor to the upper deck and everything runs easy and smooth, then take a look at possible motor issues.

I would focus on the belt, carriage, and mandrel first.

[drh]

Thanks, everyone, for the advice! It's a Model D, 2-4 minute with horizontal carriage eye fitted with a pot metal model O reproducer.