The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I recently purchased a victrola vv-xi at a local auction .. I am having trouble with the tube staying on.. Does anybody have a diagram showing how this goes together.. The man at the auction removed it and I am at a loss of how it goes back together.. Thanks in advance for your quick responses.. Newbie

When you say "tube" are you asking about the tone arm? A photo of your problem area would help us. Jerry Blais

Here are some pictures

Dear "Newbie" Welcome to the hobby!! You are missing is a "pin" that fits vertically in the top of the black "hood" and a set screw that is installed in the side to hold it in place. Look real well inside the cabinet. You just might find it--If not, it will be easy to find. You are also missing the 5 small ball-bearings that fit into those half-round cutouts in the ring that is inside the black base. They allow the tonearm to move freely. I'd suggest calling Ron Sitko, an excellent parts supplier. His number is 518-371-8549. I will look in my parts piles-- If I have what you need, I'll send them to you free of charge. I can look tomorrow evening.


Welcome!!

Brad Abell

Another example of the Forum working at its best! Jerry

I just happen to have a brand new pin and set of ball bearings from replacing the tone-arm bracket on my 8-12 (I didn't need them, because the originals were still good). I know it's a different bracket, but I think the bearings and pin are the same size. PM me your address and I'll mail them out for free. All you would need to get at that point would be the set screw, and I'm sure the hardware store can help with that.

I believe I have everything that you have mentioned.. When I install the vertical pin it is almost like it doesn't have enough downward force to hold the tube and the tube falls out.. I'm sure it's just that I don't know how it is assembled.. I have the pin, bearings, and other things.. Does anybody have a picture or diagram of how it should go together?.. That would help alot.. Thanks for everything..

You're probably missing the set screw. I drew up a little diagram for you.

Do folks use any kind of grease / vaseline / lubricant to "seal" the bearing-end of the Taper-Tube ?

Yeah, mine have a bunch of grease slopped in there. It helps the bearings roll more smoothly, as well as sealing the tone arm.