My Victrola slows down during playback

[reid]

I have just purchased my first Victor XI and am enjoying it....

The trouble I am having is that even after I have cranked several times (30 or more) it still slows down during playback. It seems to have a max playback of about half a side.
Is it possible the problem is just a dull needle?
When I am cranking, after about 15 or 20 cranks I do hear a clicking sound coming from inside.
Any tips on what the trouble may be/solutions?

Many thanks,
Reid Burgess

[gramophoneshane]

It sounds like your spring might be broken at the outer end, and the sound you are hearing is the spring slipping once there's enough power stored in the spring to overcome any friction that was previously holding the spring coils together.
You should be able to slowly wind the spring (about one full crank rotation per 1-1.5 seconds) until the spring is full wound & you feel it cant be wound any further unless you used a lot more force (which would actually break the spring).
If you cant keep gently winding the motor until it comes to a stop, then your spring is either broken or has become unattached from the spring barrel.
If the spring is broken, you can sometimes repair them, provided the break isn't anymore than a few inches from the end, but it's usually easier for most people to just buy a new replacement spring.

[Jerry B.]

I agree with Shane. It sounds like you have a broken spring. If it's not a project you want to tackle yourself, I suggest the following:

Go to the links section of the Forum.
Click on the Parts/Repair thread.
Go to The Great Lakes Phonograph Company and contact George V.
He does excellent parts & repair work.

I hope you enjoy your Victrola. Jerry Blais