The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello all

A friend of mine bought a Columbia Sterling, not knowing that the motor in it is in correct. He is seeking the correct two spring Columbia motor for it, pics attached. He is also seeking the "beauty ring" that sits around the turntable. Any leads or assistance is very much appreciated.

John Robles

How do you know it's "incorrect"? That looks like the exact same motor I have in my BI. Are there any extra holes in the motor board?

As for the dust ring, are there any holes in the motor board to indicate it was there? My BI (post-1908, with profile decal) apparently never had one.

Bill

Bill is correct. I don't believe that all BI's used the same motor, and some did not use a dust ring.

Also, for clarity, is the machine pictured the one that belongs to your friend, or an example of what you believe to be the correct motor? BTW, the motor shown has a crack in the "arm" that supports the spindle shaft. Has it been repaired somehow??

The later BI circa 1909-'10 or '11 used a triple spring motor with the crank at the rear of the case. By this time, the beauty ring was being phased out, although some examples still had them. Also, the BII was coming into vogue.
Harvey Kravitz

Looks correct to me.

Phonofreak wrote:The later BI circa 1909-'10 or '11 used a triple spring motor with the crank at the rear of the case. By this time, the beauty ring was being phased out, although some examples still had them. Also, the BII was coming into vogue.
Harvey Kravitz

Good to know. My BI has the double spring motor, no dust ring, and a 'profile' decal (no banner or prize decals).

Bill