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Hello!
I have a small problem with the c-clip that holds the Victrola automatic brake components together. I use the brake stop adjustment all the time, and the clip slowly "creeps" off the post due to the back-and-forth movement of the adjustment lever.
Here's picture of the problem: I've tried putting the fiber washer topside against it, but the clip still works its way out. Anyone else experience this? Thanks for any input!
Bob

Could you simply put a smaller washer on it?

barnettrp21122 wrote:Hello!
I have a small problem with the c-clip that holds the Victrola automatic brake components together. I use the brake stop adjustment all the time, and the clip slowly "creeps" off the post due to the back-and-forth movement of the adjustment lever.
I've tried putting the fiber washer topside against it, but the clip still works its way out. Anyone else experience this? Thanks for any input!
Bob

The C clip should be slightly convex and the surface's dry (no oil).Being convex is to apply pressure to keep it on and the edge of the clip to kind of grab the surface. Maybe you have it upside down or you have lost the proper shape by taking it apart....???. There is really nothing too complicated with the device.

I'm just confused why you need to move it so much.
I either play 10" or 12" and you set it accordingly and forget it. You may need to move "occasionally" a very small amount.

Maybe you should not have taken it apart.... . I know I have never done that.

Try installing the C clip in this position you see below.

I have to adjust the one on my 1918 Victrola XI fairly frequently, it depends and the brand and era of the record. Also the length of the selection; some Victor records have a rather large run-out area at the center, and w/o the spiral groove, the needle will just sit there at the edge of the dead wax, until the machine winds-down.

That said, I have not had issues with the "c-clip "walking-out" or position.

Are you sure all the washers are present? that clip should be a really tight fit. Going upwards from the base plate, the order of parts is: Central pillar with integral washer - red fibre washer - main autobrake fork - red fibre washer - top plate (connected to handbrake with a spring), then the "c" clip, in the position shown in your picture. If the clip is that loose, I'm surprised the autobrake works at all! Try gently bending it into a more pronounced curve, until it fits tightly. Looking at it again though, it would seem that the clip is not the original, which had a distinct, raised "flat" across it's diameter. I'll dig a brake out, and add a picture in a minute or so.

Barry

Here you go:

Thanks, everyone, for your quick replies, pictures and suggestions!
Everything checks out as far as the assembly order of the components. Changing the c-clip position made no difference. The clip is really tight, but instead of attempting to change the tension, I tried a bit of Permatex "Threadlocker Green" just around portions of the edge of the c-clip. It was a VERY small amount, applied with a barely-moistened toothpick tip. I didn't want to get any on the central pillar and other pieces!
It seems to work. Time will tell how it holds up. I've used this product before, and it's really handy. You can set your screws and then flow a bit of this on. It's thin enough to penetrate the area, but isn't difficult to break the seal later if necessary. It's available at auto parts stores.
Thanks again for the feedback!
Bob