The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello,
I am new to Victrola and Antique phonographs. I have recently picked up a VV-90 Victrola. I am looking for any tips or advice on operating and maintenance of the machine. I have taken apart the motor including removing the springs from the barrel,regreasing and lubricated all of the gears and moving parts. I noticed the drive gear on the spring barrel has worn teeth on it, should the gear be replaced? I am going to rebuild the reproducer as the gaskets and flange rubber are cracking. Is there anything else that I should give attention to?
It seems to play fine, It will play a full record and half of another in one winding(not fully wound up). I try not to wind it all the way up and let it run all the way down when I am finished with it.

Thanks Gary

Hi Gary:

I had a VV-80 once that had some slight wear on the large gear, but it worked okay. I was going to get a replacement for it, but sold it before I had a chance.

I guess it depends on how much wear there is, and if it impacts the motor's ability to run smoothly. I know that there are some very knowledgeable motor experts on this forum that could probably give you some better information.


By the way, in case you need it, there's a copy of an original VV-90 owner's manual on this page --

http://www.nipperhead.com/old/vic90.htm

Just click on the thumbnail images to make them full size for viewing/printing.

Joe

Joe,

Thanks for the link, that answered a few questions. The motor has a little noise to it but it does not effect the playing of the records. Not being familiar with the Victrola I wasn't sure how quiet it should be, although I assume that the worn gear might be a little noisey.

Gary

I've only come across one or two Victrolas in 30+ years that had what I would call "silent" running motors. (I've never owned any like that.)

My VV-4-40's motor is relatively quiet, but my Vic. V motor has a very audible rumbling sound--though you can't hear it when a record is playing.

It should probably be okay as long as it's lubricated, and you don't hear any squealing, squeaking or grating noises. The nice thing is, gears are readily available from well stocked parts suppliers for most of the common 2-spring Victor motors, like the one fitted into your model, so finding a replacement shouldn't be difficult if this becomes an issue.

Joe

I can't hear it when its playing so I will probably leave it alone. I don't think the noise that comes from it is all that bad but was curious about it.

Gary