How Do Victrola Cranks Work?

Not all phonographs are Victrolas.

The term "Victrola" entered the lexicon in 1905. It is a trademark of a phonograph. The Victor Talking Machine Co. produced Victor-Victrolas, which is the complete term. Not all phonographs are Victrolas. Old acoustic phonographs, such as the Victor and the Edison cylinder are crank-powered.

Rotating the Crank

The crank is connected to an internal spring. By rotating the crank, you load the spring with potential energy. Rotate the crank until you feel it start resisting. Do not over-rotate.

Powering the Motor

As the internal spring releases tension, it powers a motor that controls the turntable and makes it rotate at 78 revolutions per minute (RPM).

Maintenance

Over time, the crank may freeze or stick. If the crank is rotating freely and not powering the motor, then you need to replace the internal springs. If the crank is frozen or turning just a few times before stopping, you might need to replace the winding gears or simply lubricate the internal spring.

References

• Victor-Victrola: Basics of the Acoustic Phonograph
• Victor-Victrola: Repair
• Dictionary: Victrola

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish