The Cliff Bolling Spindle Hole Technique - It Works!

[Jerry B.]

Cliff Bolling told me his method of a perfect turntable spindle hole. It is sooooo simple!

Take a governor weight from a later model Victrola, place it curved side down on the felt covered spindle hole, and give a good wack with a hammer. This is the first time I've tried it and it worked perfectly. Try it!

Have others known about this technique? If not, it's officially the "Bolling Spindle Hole Technique."

Jerry Blais

[c5fan]

We have used this method for years. We buy or cut green felt in squares and use spay glue, making sure to stretch all wrinkles out before the glue dries (about 10 seconds). Then cut around the turntable with a NEW razor blade that has to be super sharp to not pull the fabric. Then use the, "hammering the weight method" of cutting the hole. Works perfect every time!

[JerryVan]

I use a ball bearing.

P.S. Use a smaller hammer when you're working on a cast iron turntable.

[AZ*]

Gosh, Jerry. Where have you been? I thought EVERYBODY knew this.

(Just kidding, this was news to me too.)


I will definitely try it next time.

[JerryVan]

Gosh, Jerry. Where have you been? I thought EVERYBODY knew this.

(Just kidding, this was news to me too.)


I will definitely try it next time.

I live in a van, down by the river...

[JerryVan]

Gosh, Jerry. Where have you been? I thought EVERYBODY knew this.

(Just kidding, this was news to me too.)


I will definitely try it next time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hm30l8sqlQw

[Dave D]

The originals are smooth and don't show the marks in the middle. What is the secret to that?
Dave D

[JerryVan]

The originals are smooth and don't show the marks in the middle. What is the secret to that?
Dave D

Hi Dave,

Stretching the felt just a bit in all directions before placing the turntable on it, and not putting glue in the center area usually helps. The first step is more difficult if you buy the pre-cut felt. Using a sheet of felt, I place it on a flat surface, pull the edges taut, and lower the turntable onto it, (with glue already applied to the turntable). Then just place some weights on the turntable and let it all dry.

For a pre-cut piece, I've placed the felt on the glued-up turntable, then stretched the material slightly by working it with my hands, rubbing the felt to slide it towards the turntable rim in all directions. Until the glue sets, it will "work", or slide some. I don't use contact cement however, as you'll most likely get no working time with it. I use "Eileen's Tacky Glue". Excellent for felt as it won't soak through. It dries fast, but not so fast that you can't make adjustments. Then place the turntable, face down, on flat surface, weight it, let it dry.

And the ball bearing of course