The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello all!
I’m not even sure if the terminology is correct but I’m looking for the correct size, and source for a new belt for the Columbia Q.
Is it a standard size for length and thickness? Is there a certain tightness it should be? Can I make my own or is there a source I can purchase the correct one at? Is there a way to increase the tension on a Q using the current belt…?
I’m not a cylinder machine guy so this is all foreign to me….
Thank you for any guidance and help?

When I replaced the belt on my Q I used the same leather belting sold for the Edison machines. Just put it around the pulleys, mark the length, add a bit for the belt to "lap" at the splice, feather the ends on each side and glue together.
The tricky part is getting it just tight enough to turn the mandrel without slipping, but not so tight it drags the machine down. The Q doesn't have any extra power. Tight enough is when you grab the mandrel and hold it and the motor slows down slightly.

Thank you for the insight and example. I asked because the belt seems loose but not really…. If that makes any sense. It does drive the cylinder.
Also, the belt is not as wide as the space given on the mandrel and the drive wheel below it…
It travels to the left when running and looks like it wants to slip off but doesn’t.
Is that normal?
Again, cylinder machines are foreign to me as I do not have any experience with the them…

As long as the belt is staying on the pulleys and not trying to ride up onto the flange, you'll be fine.