Stuck pot metal tonearm

[Anna-marie Berliner]

I have a pot metal tonearm that's in surprisingly good condition with no cracks and very little wear. It's the kind that can be switched to play both vertical and laterally cut records, the only problem is that the base of the tonearm (the part that makes it move across the record) is stuck. I've been trying to get it unstuck but I'm scared of breaking it. Has anyone ever dealt with this problem? It would be nice to be able to use the tonearm again, but I've tried everything i can think of

[Jerry B.]

I would suggest posting a photo of your tone arm with a ruler next to suggest length. A lot of off brand machines were made from generic parts. There's a reasonable chance that someone could help you.

Jerry B.

[JohnM]

I have a pot metal tonearm that's in surprisingly good condition with no cracks and very little wear. It's the kind that can be switched to play both vertical and laterally cut records, the only problem is that the base of the tonearm (the part that makes it move across the record) is stuck. I've been trying to get it unstuck but I'm scared of breaking it. Has anyone ever dealt with this problem? It would be nice to be able to use the tonearm again, but I've tried everything i can think of

Called a ‘universal’ tone arm.

[MicaMonster]

Post a photo. Certainly it can become un-stuck....but the key is to use the right method and NOT TOO MUCH FORCE, otherwise it will crumble.

[Benjamin_L]

The freezer trick usually works for me

[Anna-marie Berliner]

Sorry I haven't responded in a while, here are some pictures of the tonearm. It seems to be in pretty good condition compared to others I've had that crumble when you pick them up. This one has no cracks in it. I'm pretty sure the problem is with the bearings