How to Replace a Wurlitzer Cartridge
Wurlitzer made a number of turntable devices, including older hand-cranked turntables and some home audio turntables. However, Wurlitzer was most known for its jukeboxes. Wurlitzer jukeboxes were very common from the late 1940s through the late 1970s. Modern CD and digital jukeboxes began replacing older vinyl-based jukeboxes in the 1980s. Once all of the mechanical elements of the jukebox have been verified, a common step in restoration is to replace the cartridge. The cartridge is the component that holds the playing needle.
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Things You'll Need
- Wurlitzer jukebox
- Screwdriver
- Replacement cartridge
- Soldering iron (in some cases)
- Solder pump (in some cases)
- Solder (in some cases)
Instructions
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1
Remove the old cartridge by unscrewing the fastening screw located on the bottom of the tone arm. Set this screw aside.
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2
Make a mental note of the order of the wires connecting the cartridge to the tone arm. In most cases, it is white on top with the two red wires connecting to the two bottom connectors on the cartridge.
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3
Disconnect the wires. If the cartridge on your jukebox is soldered in place, de-solder the wires using a soldering iron and de-soldering pump. If the original cartridge uses screws to connect the wire, loosen the screws and remove the wires. In some cases, the wires may have slip-on connectors, so slip the wires off the pegs.
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4
Attach the wires in the same order on the new cartridge. Use the same method as on the original to connect the wires. If the wires were soldered, solder them in place. Otherwise, screw or slip the wires in place.
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Tips & Warnings
Most Wurlitzer replacement cartridges will come with a needle pre-installed. If your particular model doesn't, you may need to also buy a replacement needle. Talk with your supplier when ordering your cartridge.
