The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Greetings from a new member!

I have been following this board for a long time and have learned a great deal. Seems like any problem I have ever encountered when restoring a phonograph can be answered by searching The Talking Machine Forum! Until now...

I am struggling with the 2/4 minute gearing on a Edison Home Model D. The planetary gear, along with the motor and upper and lower gearing, has been cleaned and lubricated. The phonograph runs smooth and quiet while in the 2 minute position, however when the planetary gear is pulled out for 4 minute operation there is a binding feel that repeats at about every 1 to 1-⅓ rotation of the mandrel. It doesn't appear to be in the same mandrel position every time. It lasts for about ¼ of the rotation. It is significant enough to stop the governor. There doesn't appear to be any wear on the planetary gears.

I was wondering if anyone has experienced this problem and found a solution?

Thank you in advance for any advice!

I haven't figured this one out yet. All suggestions, are appreciated!

Welcome to the forum
I would suggest that you try lubricating the inside of the feedscrew. In 2 min. mode the feedscrew and
the mandrel shaft rotate together. In 4 min. mode the feedscrew, due to the gear change, will rotate slower
around the shaft. Lack of lubrication could be causing them to bind, as they move at different speeds.
Try working some lubrication in at the ends where the shaft penetrates thru the feedscrew.
Hope this helps.

Thanks Dave! That makes sense. It very well could be the culprit as I do not currently have any lubricant between the shaft and feed screw. Upon inspection and cleaning, it didn't appear to have ever had any lubrication in this area so I simply polished the shaft surface. I'll give it a try.

Do you recommend a light machining oil in this application?

It's an often overlooked and hidden area for lubrication but it's essential the feedscrew
have it to be able to rotate freely around the shaft.
I dont have any brands to recommend but any lightweight machine oil will work fine.

Great. Thank you Bill!

I mean Dave!!! (it has been a long Monday)

Hey 69CamaroSS, how did it turn out with the binding planetary gear issue on your cylinder player? What was the result of your applying lubrication? I have a Triumph model D and am trying to chase flutter out of it. I think the last area I need to address is the planetary gear as it seems to be making a fair amount of noise in the 4m position; and if one can hear bearings rolling together, that can't be good for a smooth play-back.

Ralph

Ralph,

Lubricating the mandrel shaft inside of the feed screw definitely help. In addition, I realized that the small "L" shaped retainer on the mandrel collar that rides in the groove of the feed screw was bent and dragging a bit in the groove. Pretty smooth operation now.

Good luck and let us know how yours turns out.

Steve