Lamar Boulet wrote:

> The springs seem in good shape, but as you have advised, I have
> been attempting to get the springs out to clean them.

Be aware that removal of the springs that drive a Victrola motor is a
very dangerous proposition.  Unless you have had experience in such
exercises, I'd leave them alone.

While I can't quite picture the setscrews to which you refer, they may
be staked in for the above reason.  One way of getting the springs out
is to pry the cover off the spring barrel, put on a pair of heavy
gloves and a heavy jacket, and dump the barrel into a big trash can
(and hope it doesn't bounce back and slice you).

Now that you've been warned, there is an outfit called APSCO (American
Phonograph Supply Co.) in New York that will rebuild or lube your
springs for you.  They have a web site.

> What material is used to make the 'fiber' needles?  Am I correct
> in assuming that the fiber needles will do less damage to these
> old records?

This is a common misconception.  First, fiber needles are nearly
impossible to come by.  Most have deteriorated over the years, and
to my knowledge they are not being made.  Fiber needle sharpeners
(necessary adjuncts) are available as antiques, but can be quite
costly.

Some people have successfully used thorns of various kinds with varying
degrees of success.  The problem with this approach is that it grinds a
fiber into the record groove that does not clean out easily, if at all.
While the records may look good, they can have excessive noise,
especially if later played with modern equipment.

Steel needles are still being made.  I have heard that Pfanstiehl,
among others, is still active.  APSCO and Dwight's Musical Americana
sell both soft tone and loud tone needles for about 2 cents each in
quantity.  With a Credenza, you will definitely want the soft tone
needles.  Loud (or "normal") needles will drive you from the room,
bleeding from the ears.

The shellac from which the records are made is compounded with an
abrasive (clay or gravel).  It carves the softer steel needle to the
shape of the groove within the first few revolutions of the record.
If you replace your needle after every play, your records will last
indefinitely.  I have a Victor pressed in 1906 (Charles D'Almaine
playing the Largo from Xerxes) that sounds just fine.  I wonder how
many of our CD's will be playable 90 years hence?

A. B. Bonds