Phonoland

So my Seeburg 100r started cutting out early. Pulled out the manual and started examining the situation. Identified the trip switch, spring or trip switch adjustment as likely causes. It seemed as if there wasn't enough tension on the trip switch even though the spring was adjusted out to the max. The switch still wouldn't trigger even when the little metal switch arm was freed as the tone arm got to the end of the record. I figured either the switch was gummed up (though it "seems" to move reasonably easily) or the spring was weakening so I manually "shortened" the spring to increase tension (just moved the spring up a little). This, however, has had the unintended consequence of causing skips, particularly on the "even" or right side of the record. So now I'm thinking the switch needs to be replaced. Does that sound about right? Anyone have any luck with replacements such as available through A1? Shortening the spring did cause the switch to activate when the little metal arm was freed, but then the skipping started...

Just saw the other thread on the "c was reborn. I think it helps explain the problem. My wire was not being hit or pushed, thus it was incorrectly relying solely on the spring to activate the switch.

Hi Carl,
This holds true for most mechanical items, especially true for Seeburgs--
"Springs" NEVER should be "shortened, nor "lengthened", in any way. In Seeburg's case, the only time I have seen a failure in the last 50 years, "someone" has either over "stretched" or cut a spring. If you have determined a spring needs "changing", you should re-examine why, and I think you will find the spring is NOT cause of the problem. Ron Rich

Yup. Due to the video in the other thread, I've fixed the problem. I'll probably replace that spring just for good measure after my rather noobish mistake. Argh.

Ron Rich wrote:Hi Carl,
This holds true for most mechanical items, especially true for Seeburgs--
"Springs" NEVER should be "shortened, nor "lengthened", in any way. In Seeburg's case, the only time I have seen a failure in the last 50 years, "someone" has either over "stretched" or cut a spring. If you have determined a spring needs "changing", you should re-examine why, and I think you will find the spring is NOT cause of the problem. Ron Rich

I totally agree, Ron.
The same holds true for phonographs - the idler tensioning spring.
People think that shortening it to "restore" or "improve" grip to the turntable platter drives is the answer.
It's not, because glazed, hardened, or worn idlers need to be REPLACED.

Carl,
If you want to replace it--PM me, as I have them in stock.
Matt, I have seen idler wheel springs "shortened"so much that they pinch the idler between the motor shaft and the TT--this also leads to premature motor failure, as the bearing is always being "pushed" sideways---
Ron Rich

Thanks for Ron. Unfortunately I ordered one last night! Sry...

NBD-- Ron Rich