The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

What is a good alternative to use for that pin that goes through the winding shaft and that the winding gear slides down over on Victor outside horn motors? I often see nails used, but I wonder if they are too soft? I was considering used a cut off drill bit, but I wonder if that is too brittle? Another thought is those compression roll pins I see in the drawers at the hardware store.

What do you guys use?
Dave D

I would use a roll pin.

I have also used brass welding rod without any trouble. A machinist is the one the told me about using that 35 years ago.

Dave,

Could use "drill rod", (which is not cut off drills), 1045 steel or 1144 steel. All available from McMaster Carr.

Roll pins are hollow and brittle. Also, in that small size, they can be a b#$%^h to install.

Jerry,
I remembered I had some 3/32" 12L14 left over from another project. I think it will work fine.
Dave

Dave,
The original pins were a non-hardened steel. I think the steels that Jerry recommended would work well. I wouldn't be too quick to use a hardened pin that is brittle under pressure….
Roy