The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

need4art wrote:That's interesting I have had one of the L&H cutters for some time and never gotten to get it to work properly. But guess what I am missing the spring and ball assembly. The Ball looks like it could be made from a bit of rod with the end rounded off. Could I get a length measurement/ The spring well length would help and does the ball-rod sit inside or on top and how strong is the spring.

Thx Abe

Actually, you don't need the ball-rod; the later versions such as gramophone78's didn't have them. They just had the spring.
I experimented and this is what I came up with:
Take a 13/64" X 13/16" extension spring, available in an assortment from Harbor Freight Stretch the ends, making it a "compression" spring.
Clip the loops off, and shorten the spring to about ⅝' Insert the spring into the well backing the cutter blade, then swing the blade around and hold it as you lower the assembly back into position in the cutter. I've tried this, and it works! Hope it does for you.
I'd send you the spring if you want! Just pm me and I'll get it out.
Best
Bob Barnett

Bob, your a wonder! got a Harbor Freight right down the street and I will pick up the springs, might just need them for another project...

Thx Abe

Thanks, but it might be I have just too much free time!
Glad to help!
Bob

I purchased a L&H needle cutter for $32.94 and it works perfectly. I have been using a file to sharpen my bamboo needles, but the L&H needle cutter does a much better job. My records sound better too.

The right tool for the job really makes a difference!.
I have a Victor and an L&H, both work as intended.
Prior to owning these, it was a nail clipper!

James.