Victrola No.2 sound-box &1923 VV-80 semi-automatic brake

[30smusicfreak]

Hey! *coughs* I'm new here. *cough* Anyway, I'm wondering which direction to turn (when facing the side that reads 'Victrola No.2' with the needle-bar) the sound-box when taking it off, and tips for replacing and removing gaskets and the mica from the sound-box. Some tips/advice for putting 'em back in wouldn't hurt, too. Also, I read that to stop the brake from squeaking, you could put a drop of oil on the pad. That might not have been the best thing to do???? I don't know. Sigh. But now, when I press the brake in, it'll stop the platter, but as soon as I let go of it, the platter will slowly start back up to 78 RPM. One thing to note, when the platter does get back up to 78 RPM, you can hear the brake pad scratching (sounds like 'swoohsh, swoohsh, swoohsh...')the platter 'til I press the brake into the 'play' position. I'm wondering how to get the brake to stop the platter, but not squeak. Any help would be so, so appreciated!

[Jerry B.]

Good questions...

The needle on the Victrola 2 reproducer should not be vertical when it comes into contact with the record. The reproducer slides on to the curved goose neck of the tone arm. I then turns and locks into position and that is the correct position for playing a record.

Try the search feature of the Forum. There are several old threads that pertain to replacing reproducer gaskets and general reproducer maintenance. It isn't really difficult once you get the little screws broken loose.

Maybe you need the lengthen or replace the little leather pad on the brake so in maintains better contact with the turntable. Jerry Blais

[gramophone78]

You can also try our "search" section and you will find many, many great threads on rebuilding #2 reproducers and others; including where to buy replacement parts.... .

[30smusicfreak]

Thanks! Is there a certain way I should twist the sound-box when taking it off to make repairs? About the oil, I *DID* do that, but now the brake only keeps the platter stopped for a second or two, then it releases tension and the platter goes spinnin' 'n' spinnin'.

[Springmotor70]

Welcome!

The reproducer turns counter clock-wise to unlock it then you have to work it out of the slot on the U tube.

Your brake leather has worn short. You can replace it with new stock or move the worn piece out farther but be careful in bending the metal clip that holds the material. As a stop gap solution you can put a little piece of duct tape around the gap or an adhesive felt dot to allow it to make contact with the turn table.

Good Luck

[GrafonolaG50]

The leather belting for a sewing machine is good for brake material, that's what I used to fix that same problem on my VV-IV.

[Phonofreak]

Welcome aboard to the Forum. The guys and gals are very helpful in answering your questions. I strongly suggest that you get the Compleat Talking Machine(Yes, that the correct spelling) by Eric Riess. It is full of information of collecting, restoration,repairs, values and machine identification. You can get it at any book store, phonograph dealers, or Amazon. Read that book cover to cover. I have read that book hundreds of times and still see something new. Good luck with your machine.
Harvey Kravitz

[30smusicfreak]

Okay. I tried searching for the old post on the repairing of sound-boxes, but I can't seem to find them. Would you guys kindly reply the links to some on here? Thanks.