The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Ok I have a victor Victrola vv -xvii 4 spring motor. It came with the springs removed (old ones were broken.) What I need is can anyone tell me starting from the crank side which way do the springs go in. Clock wise or counter clock wise. I know they don't all go in the same way, just need to know which way. I think I have the drums working against each other. How can I unwind the motor? Thanks

I don't know how well this will help, but for me, I always work backwards through the transmission. Start at the spindle, or at the crank, because you know for sure which direction those go, and their effects (tightening or releasing the spring). Follow the transmission of power into the springs, making sure to reverse rotational direction at every gear. Once you have figured out for sure just one spring, you've got it, as their orientation alternates.

If I am wrong, some kind soul will correct me.

Got it. Thanks