The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I’ve cleaned and put new grease all over the motor for my Victor E, but when I went to play it to test out the machine the reproducer weighed down the record and stopped it from spinning. After looking up the problem, the common solution is that the springs are worn and can’t spin anymore, however after playing with the springs individually in the motor I don’t think this is the case. I could be wrong as I’m very new to this. Any help is appreciated!

How large was the record? How badly worn was it? The Monarch Jr., after all, was designed to play 7" records, although it can take 10"; also, in my experience, if a record is sufficiently worn, the surface friction can stop a spring motor, especially if the springs are somewhat weak. Just a couple of suggestions off the top of my head.

Hey LtFrenchFries, what needles are you using, and is the one in there brand new?

mick_vt wrote:Hey LtFrenchFries, what needles are you using, and is the one in there brand new?

mick_vt wrote:Hey LtFrenchFries, what needles are you using, and is the one in there brand new?

I’m using new loud/medium needles I got from Walt Sommers on eBay.

You might try inserting the needle only part way into the reproducer and see if that will allow the record to play. Don't leave it out so far that it will not lock in.

Update: I got it to play by adding more tension on the spring. However, the speed still fluctuates a lot while playing a record.

You say you greased all over - did you use oil where you are supposed to use oil, or did you grease everything?

LtFrenchFries wrote:Update: I got it to play by adding more tension on the spring. However, the speed still fluctuates a lot while playing a record.

Are you (nearly) fully winding the machine? You can't just turn the crank a few times, you have to really wind it fully.

Please take this with the good intent given. Are you placing the needle on the correct side of the record?

Best wishes, Jerry Blais

Be sure you are not trying to play a vinyl record. Cheers, Russie