Help with Morse Electrophonic

Hi,

Last week, I lucked out & bought a Morse Electrophonic record player (has 8-track, stereo, etc...) It played beautifully...no problems. Two days ago I drove it down to my sisters (I am giving it to her as a gift) with a huge stack of records in hand. We set it up and now it skips playing on any type of record The needle even drags quickly to the side.

I figured it may have jostled around during the drive? I researched online re: anti-skip, tone weight, balancing, etc.. However, I can't seem to find exactly what I need to do? I have adjusted the little silver knob, to no avail. It is on a level surface.

Could anyone give me some advice? Did I knock the record player arm loose, perhaps?

Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.

Most likely you didn't LOCK the tonearm down for transit, as most people do, and are now faced with having to replace the needle.
Considering its age, it will also require servicing by a knowledgeable tech, because it's got dried-up lubricants by now.
This will eventually lead to it seizing up and not performing properly.
Would you drive a 1970's car that hasn't been tended to, without having it checked out?

Thanks for the info. And yes, I planned on getting it serviced. I wouldn't want to destroy it like a 70's car. I am not that new to this. I live in a small town that does not have that option. But, down in San Diego, I have a good place. I recently restored (mostly on my own) an Emenee Jukebox player as well. Those are awesome. Had one when I was a kid & couldn't believe my luck when I found one at a Goodwill.

I posted the question b/c I wanted to know if there was anything I could do by myself that would help out a bit. You are right, I did not lock the arm down. Fail on my part.

The record arm - is it the needle that causes it to scratch along the record (kinda drags) or is it the arm itself?
I am taking the player in on Monday. Just wanted to see what your opinion was.

Thanks again for your help. This is a great forum & I really appreciate it.

Lisa

Hi Lisa,
Most likely,the needle is "broken"--probably no other problem--however----could well be --
Ron Rich