The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Is the "Keep Level" stamp seen on all AP's? I have an AQ that doesn't have it.

I've only seen a few APs and all were stamped that way. The AQ has a feedscrew so it's less critical.

kirtley2012 wrote:when i get a machine im usually over generous with the wd40 on some parts so im just wondering if your machine just needs some oiling

Just a bit of friendly advice: you really shouldn't be using WD-40 to oil your machines. It's fine for loosening rusty bolts or fixing a squeaky door hinge, but you should be using some type of gear oil for phonograph lubrication.

Well i use grease for the gears but i find wd40 works very well on the cariage rod and things like some pivots and bearings, makes them run very smoothly!

kirtley2012 wrote:Well i use grease for the gears but i find wd40 works very well on the cariage rod and things like some pivots and bearings, makes them run very smoothly!

I used to do the same thing, but eventually realized that the WD-40 doesn't stand up for as long as good oil (not 3-In-One). I began wondering why I needed to re-lubricate so often - - then when I started using good oil (I use Tri-Flow but there are others) things kept running smoothly for much longer.

WD-40 is an excellent water/moisture displacer (Water Displacer)and rust inhibitor, but its lubricating quality is very light and short-lived. It has its uses, but long-term lubrication isn't its strong suit.

George P.