Columbia Baby Grand Electric Motor

[Phono-Phan]

I am finally getting some time to go through my Columbia Baby Grand phonograph. It seems that the electric motor is sluggish at times. I have removed the auto start/stop mechanism from the gear train to eliminate that as being the cause. I haven't worked on a combination AC/DC motor before. There is an adjustment arm pictured that has both the DC and AC markings on it. I am looking for some advice as to how this motor should be set up with this adjustment arm. I have oiled the bearings and spindle shaft. It will run strong for awhile and then get a bit sluggish. Is there a way to get more "PEP" out of the motor? I really think if the motor had more power that the auto stop/start mechanism would work properly.

[Phonoboy]

If the motor has brushes I'd take a look at them.

[Phono-Phan]

Great advice I was able to gain access to the brush and armature area. I used some 600 grit emery cloth and was able to clean off the armature. I then used some degreaser on a Q-Tip to clean up the residue. The motor has more snap to it now. I was able to get the auto stop/start mechanism to work properly also.
THANKS for the advice!!!!!

[Phonoboy]

Great advice I was able to gain access to the brush and armature area. I used some 600 grit emery cloth and was able to clean off the armature. I then used some degreaser on a Q-Tip to clean up the residue. The motor has more snap to it now. I was able to get the auto stop/start mechanism to work properly also.
THANKS for the advice!!!!!

No problem, it's one nice looking motor.
I'd love to see it working again.

[Phono-Phan]

Does anyone know of a rebuilder for this type of motor? I have cleaned the brushes and armature and it worked well for a short time and now it doesn't have much power.
Thanks,
Ken Brekke

[barnettrp21122]

I've used this company for two of my Capehart Bodine electric turntable motors. They weren't put off by the old/odd nature of the motor. They did an excellent job on both, and the turn-around time was reasonable.

Biedler's Electric Motor Repair Inc
phone 304 263 9995

194 Hack Wilson Way
Martinsburg, WV 25401

Good luck!
Bob

[Phono-Phan]

Bob,
Thanks for the referral. I will contact them on Monday.
Ken

[Phono-Phan]

I sent off my spare motor to Biedler's to get it cleaned up and see if the brushes need replacing. My next challenge is to find a place to rewind the power resistor that is in series with the motor. The spare one I have is shot. It is like the one in the fourth picture. Does anyone know of a place that can rewind them?
Thanks!!

[Henry]

I'd ask the rebuilder what voltage and resistance work best with this motor, and get a modern power source (transformer or variable transformer) to provide power while you continue your hunt for a power resistor. If the motor can run on as low as 20 VAC you might be able to use a classic Lionel train transformer of suitable amp capacity, like the KW (190 watts) or ZW (250 watts). I've seen the KW for less than a bill (<$100) at train shows here. There may be cheaper alternatives.

[Phono-Phan]

Thanks! I also have thought of using a power tool rheostat. The power resistor is a spare but I thought I should start searching for a place to have it redone.