The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Regarding the sluggish playback-- There are numerous things that need to be in correct adjustment for the machine to run well. If the motor runs freely with the belt removed, it is likely one of the other adjustments that is causing the problem.
The first thing I would check is the adjustable bearing on the right end of the mandrel-- mounted on the endgate. With the gate closed, loosen the set screw and slowly adjust the bearing either in or out and see if that helps the running a bit. Also-- on the left side of the motor there is a spring loaded belt tensioner that rides against the belt-- make sure the small brass cylinder turns easily. And, check to see whether the belt may be too tight.

When it is running, try lightly lifting the carriage to lessen the pressure exerted on the record, while allowing it to continue to move across the record. If that improves it, it may be the half-nut is putting too much pressure on the feedscrew. The half-nut that tracks the threaded feedscrew needs the be set so it just barely engages the fine threads on the feedscrew. On the early machines there isn't an adjusting screw on that bar. You may need to lessen the pressure it is exerting on the feedscrew, by lightly 'bending' it upwards. Be very careful trying to do this as those half-nut bars will snap with too much pressure.

Make sure the reproducer weight moves freely, both up and down and sideways within the limit loop that's on the upper side of the reproducer.

Go slowly-- play with the pivot points and I'm sure you'll get it running well in no time.

Brad Abell

Interestingly, I have already been through everything you just suggested. The motor does turn freely and strong when the belt is off. I just put a new belt on it ( came with it) as the previous owner was going to replace the missing original belt before he lost interest. I may have gotten it too tight. Once the glue has set, I will try to gently stretch it. If not, I'll
order another. It doesn't seem to take much to throw these out of whack. The unit cleaned up very nice, the bed plate is probably the worst. Many places where the paint was chipped and "touched up". If I make it to 115 years of age, I'm sure I'll need a few touch ups.
On the horn, before I got the replies, or looked in the "for sale" area, I ordered a repo off the web. We antique a lot, it will give me something to watch for. Thank you all for the responses.

You may be able to loosen the belt just a little by tightening the motor mount screws a bit-- I'm guessing you will find it to be something simple--- My guess is that the belt may be too tight, but I'm 400 miles away from you, so how should I know? Good Luck-- You'll figure it out.

Brad

Outune you guessed it. I tightened the motor mount screws and the screws holding the top mechanism to the bed plate and it was enough so that it plays well now. On the hunt now for some nice 2 minute cylinders. Thanks for the idea.

Outstanding! Glad you got it running well. Thanks for letting us know!

Brad Abell