Idlerwheel for Rockola Model 440

Deuceandddoll · by **Deuceandddoll** » Sun Aug 04, 2013 3:42 pm

My old Rockola Model 440 started slowing down while playing records. The motor is spinning well but the idlerwheel appears to be worn down. Anyone know where I can purchase a new idlerwheel or know of a different solution? Thanks!

Fred S · by **Fred S** » Sun Aug 04, 2013 5:16 pm

Hello
You might look at the rubber grommets that mount the motor to the frame. I had the same problem last year I noticed mine was slowing down. When I pulled the turn table off I could see and feel the motor turning strong. I thought it might be under load with the turntable that the motor was slowing down or the idler was wearing out. Look closely at the screws that hold the motor in place there should be rubber grommets that suspend the motor at the correct height and angle. My grommets allowed the motor to drop down so it was at the wrong angle which caused the motor to bind against the idler. Unplug the unit and reach in to see if the motor is real loose or at least confirm it is mounted correctly and the grommets are still good and not rotted out.

by **Ron Rich** » Sun Aug 04, 2013 6:28 pm

Gents,
The following applies to most all "idler wheel driven turntables (TT's)"
Motor must be held in an exact location by the grommets. Motor must be oiled (top and bottom)--some have an oil tube for the bottom, others, not. Those without a tube, must be removed to access the oil "hole". Shaft must be free of oil. Idler wheel, must be oiled, and free of oil on the rubber part. The TT itself, must be free of oil in the area the ideler wheel touches it, and the shaft needs oil--- I ( as well as most motor makers), recommend 20 wt. ND oil be used in all oil points. IMHO, in NO case, should you "adjust the length" of the spring !!!
In RockOla's (RO) case, I find it necessary to use only the RO specified, (off) "white" type grommets. These are available from any one of the above listed suppliers ( See above--"Parts--where to find--").
One Caution about RO's: They had a couple of ways of mounting the motors. If you model has "e rings (aka: "sirclips"), and flatwashers, holding the motor, dis-regard the following. If mounted any other way, you should have small brass inserts inside the grommet. These tend to "fall out-get lost" when working in this area--do not let this happen !
Should you still have problems--new wheels are available, or you can have you old wheel re-surfaced.
On company doing this, I know of, is: Vintage Electronics.
Ron Rich