The VV2-55 auto shut off ...

[BexVictrola]

Does this beautiful thing need an adjustment, or a spring?
I haven't figured it out yet. The break works if I tip it but, The arm will not tip the break on it's own.
Beck

[barnettrp21122]

I don't have a Victor portable like this anymore, so my advice is from memory:
When playing, the knife blade will begin to ride along the toothed plate, clicking as it travels. The eccentric run-off groove of a post-1923 Victor (and many other brands) record causes the blade to catch and push the plate to the left, tripping the brake.
This brake won't work automatically if the run-off groove is not eccentric (back-and-forth) in its pattern.
There should be a small spring on the knife blade piece, holding the blade against the teeth of the plate as it makes contact. You'll see and hear a small "click" as the tone-arm travels towards center.

Hope this helps!
Bob

[BexVictrola]

That really does help. I think I see where a spring goes. Thanks for getting to me so quick.
Gave $35, took it apart greased and put it back together.
Had to drill the spring box apart to get it right, then rebuilt the orthotics. it's a really great machine.

Missing the stylus holder, was yours leather ? I find very few pictures of it.

Thanks again

[barnettrp21122]

These are nice portables and the sound is very good! The spring you need is small and just strong enough to make the brake function properly. Too strong a spring will impede tone-arm travel.
The reproducer rest you mention was made of rubber, and most I've seen have gone rock-hard or are missing altogether. You shouldn't have any trouble resting the reproducer chuck in the metal well, as long as you remove the needle first. Enjoy the music!
Bob