Victrola VE-XVI restoration

urk · by **urk** » Thu Oct 17, 2013 5:25 pm

Looking for advice on if I'm biting off more than I can chew. I rescued this Victrola VE-XVI (1913-14 range) for $20.

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: serial plate; IMG_0768.jpg (130.34 KiB) Viewed 1224 times

Most but not all of the internals are there. I'm finding very little on this specific model since it was so early of a an electric motor. I know I'm missing these (don't know what they are called)

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If I understand correctly, this was used to convert power between 110/220 depending on the power grid back then. Can this be re-wired using modern components?

This is my first 78 phonograph. Not afraid to get dirty and don't have much invested yet. Willing to put $200-300 in the internals. Cabinet restoration isn't a concern. Missing both front lower doors and both back panel covers. I can take some better shots of the internals tonight if it would help.

by **Ron Rich** » Thu Oct 17, 2013 8:05 pm

It would be my guess, that you have a photo of some resistors there--
Most likely it can be updated using newer components--but one would need to have either knowledge of what was required, or a schematic to figure it out. Ron Rich

by **Joe_DS** » Thu Oct 17, 2013 11:43 pm

The Victrola universal electric motors are relatively rare, so please try to keep it as original as possible.

There was a topic about this on the Talking Machine Forum -- SEE: http://forum.talkingmachine.info/viewto ... f=2&t=6470

Your best bet might be to post there, since there are a number of members on that site that are familiar with what you have, and could probably walk you through the repair steps.

Joe

urk · by **urk** » Fri Oct 18, 2013 1:55 am

Great link! Thanks, Joe.

Do either of you have a copy of the Compleat Talking Machine by Reiss? Wanted to see if it covers much on this kind of player before investing in a copy.

by **Joe_DS** » Fri Oct 18, 2013 4:05 am

I no longer have a copy and I'm not sure how much is included about early electric motor repair, but the book does cover all other aspects of repair, such as cabinet work and rebuilding the sound box or reproducer, which should be done before attempting to play any records.

I'd say it would be worthwhile investment.

Joe