Keeping Your Vintage Jukebox Singing: The Importance of Rubber Parts

Understanding Rubber Parts in Your Jukebox

Often overlooked are the rubber parts in your jukebox. These components play a crucial role in the overall functionality of your beloved machine. It's essential that these parts remain in good condition. If they become hard, brittle, perished, or misshapen, it can seriously affect your jukebox's performance.

The Impact of Age and Storage

Age and poor storage conditions contribute to rubber parts "going off." Over time, they can lose their elasticity and effectiveness. Additionally, constant contamination from lubricants can lead to rubber failure. Regular checks can help prevent these issues.

SEEBURG Jukeboxes

Rumbles in the "selectomatic" mechanism of SEEBURG jukeboxes can often be traced back to the rubber mount discs located at the top and bottom of the motor. The motor coupling between the motor shaft and the mechanism drive worm is also critical. It's important to check these components to ensure they remain resilient. If they harden, motor noise will easily transmit to the pick-up, ruining your listening experience.

WURLITZER Jukeboxes

When it comes to WURLITZER jukeboxes, phono motor drive belts are an obvious point of inspection. However, don't forget about the two rubber mounts that hold the motor to the mechanism. The two grommets cushioning the motor bracket from the mechanism are equally important. These parts often become "rock hard" over time, providing no isolation from motor vibrations. This can create a noticeable racket through the speakers, especially on quiet records or during the lead-in and lead-out grooves.

ROCKOLA and AMI Jukeboxes

For ROCKOLA and AMI jukeboxes, phono motor mounts must remain pliable. This is vital for maintaining their anti-vibration qualities and ensuring the correct height for the motor spindle. The idler wheel should also not be "rock hard." It needs to absorb motor noise; otherwise, it will transmit unwanted sounds. A common issue is a rhythmic knocking or bumping noise that can be heard in the background of the record. This is often caused by an indentation on the edge of the wheel, typically resulting from long-term storage with the turntable in place. As the turntable revolves, the bump occurs every time the blemish passes over the motor spindle.

The Importance of Tone Arm Grommets

In earlier RockOlas, the tone arm pivots at the rear, supported by two rubber grommets. These grommets can deteriorate to the point of disintegration, leading to inconsistent record set-down anywhere on the record. This inconsistency can ruin the listening experience, making it crucial to keep these parts in check.

The Solution: Replacement

The only real cure when rubber parts are affected is to replace them. Regular maintenance and timely replacements will ensure your jukebox continues to bring joy for years to come.

Conclusion

Maintaining the rubber parts of your vintage jukebox is essential for its performance. By keeping an eye on these components, you can avoid many common issues. Don't let hard, brittle rubber ruin your listening experience!

For more information on parts, visit Parts. Remember, a well-maintained jukebox is a happy jukebox!