The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Question? Does it make any difference if the spring is left wound tight or is it best to let it totally unwind when not in use?

Thanks,

Andy

Many discussions around this in the forum already. While there is some debate it a total run down of the springs is required every time, there is agreement I think that one should not leave springs tightly wound. I personally had my only spring break (sic) when I first played a machine that I had received with a fully wound spring. Who know how long it had been sitting that way.
Andreas

Hello Andy:
This topic gets discussed rather regularly. Here is a recent thread:
http://forum.talkingmachine.info/viewto ... nd#p102733
Bob

One of the main causes of a "tired" spring is leaving it fully wound when not in use.

Let it unwind BUT NOT COMPLETELY, otherwise the end of the spring may become detached from it's location. Winding furiously MAY re-engage a detached spring end, but if not you will have to dismantle and re-assemble the motor.

Thanks to everyone!

I just read an Edison owner's manual where they address this. The Edison owner's manual said it is bad to fully wind a spring. It is best to wind it ¾'s of the way to play records and let it wind down after playing. Edison also said it is bad to only wind ¼ of the way as the motor doesn't perform at its best that way.