The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Does anyone know if the crank on a Columbia AS is similar to a BS crank with the "clutch" or is it a crank similar to the early "A" style? Thanks ,Bob Smock

Great question.

It could actually be either, depending on how early or late the AS is. Later AS coin ops used a slip clutch crank that is similar to the Columbia BS. I've included a picture of both of them below. The clutch mechanism is the same as a BS crank, but the throw of the crank, is definitely longer.

Earlier AS coin-ops used a non slip clutch crank that is similar, but not the same as earlier Columbia machines. The early AS crank is the same as was used on all Columbia "N" coin-ops. The shape of the crank, as well as a slight inset in the outer end of the shaft to accommodate the screw that holds the crank in place to the machine were the main differences between this crank and other non-coin-op Columbia cranks. I've included a couple pictures of my "N" crank for reference.

Hope this helps.

Shawn

Columbia BS Crank
Columbia AS Crank
Columbia N Crank

Shawn, thanks for the help,The machine I have has the crank held on with a screw and the crank disengages when playing,does the clutch type also disengage, or turn backwards while playing? Thanks again, Bob

Bob,

I am not familiar with a coin op crank for a Columbia that "disengages." All of the Columbia models I have seen have cranks that "unwind" or turn backward while the machine is playing. Maybe another forum member can respond.

Shawn