Phonoland

Hi all. A friend owns a Seeburg USC2 that won't play any records. It looks like it's accepting digits for selection, but instead of moving to a record and playing, there's just a 'relay' thunk and nothing. Trying the 'mechanism start' service switch results in a buzzing sound but no movement either.

I'm decent enough at electronics and mechanical tinkering, but my background is in aircraft--not jukeboxes--so I don't really know what I'm looking at. Also, it isn't my jukebox so I've looked online for service manuals and troubleshooting guides but I'm not prepared to spend money on this (but I really would like to help the guy out if I can).

So I know the first step is always 'RTFM' (or some variation thereof), but as someone not directly involved in the collection/maintenance/repair of jukeboxes and with limited willingness to dive in financially, is there guidance to be had?

Is there something fairly common that could cause this problem? I've seen tips for common causes when it scans twice but won't play, but nothing for 'doesn't budge at all.'

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!

Dave,
Without the manual, it is almost an impossible task to type answers--
With the manual, I would tell you to check the "117vac motor run circuit"--
Ron Rich

Have you checked ALL the fuses?

Hello Dave - RTFM is pretty much a requirement if you don't want to cause more damage to a Seeburg juke while pretending to troubleshoot it. This brand is unique. Seeburg Manuals are ALL still copy writed so you wont find a free USC2 Firestar pdf on line. Also the USC1 Bandshell manual is the primary manual and seeburg made a smaller supplemental USC2 Firestar manual - they are often sold as a set. The official manual seller is victoryglass and they charge $$$$ for a set (don't ask me why) - about as much as a broken USC2 is worth on craigslist. IMHO the Firestar is an excellent sounding and looking jukebox however it isn't worth much $$ like the silver age jukes.

Ron and LVJB both make good suggestions.

Don't know how long your firestar has sat broken - guessing years. In the last month I have found 3 USC2's that have sat for years and were seized up. Lubrication is vital. If this was a 1971 chevy and the motor won't turn over, you might check to see if there is oil in crankcase - are the piston rings rusted in place? Likewise for a Seeburg juke I would ask: Can you turn the mech motor coupling with your index finger?

regards - mark