The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Dear All,

I'm restoring my early time gramophone and just finished installed 3 spring into the spring barrels, however, on this page, I'm trouble to install the center shafts into the center of spring due to the center hole is too small and tight to put in, even I tried to use long nose pliers but in vain. Do you have any better idea or method to make it done? Looking for your generously coach and supports. Happy new year to all.

I typically insert the shaft ("arbor") so the pin is just ahead of the end of the spring. In this way, when the mainspring is wound, the pin will rotate almost 360 degrees, then pop into the hole. If the end of the mainspring is properly shaped, this works every time.

George P.