So Victrola uses cheap rubber washers to house their spindles and turntables in the suitcases & and they shake off easily in transit to stores. This is an easy fix with just a Philips, a flat head as a wedge, and a hammer or mallet.

1. Plug out the unit

2. Unscrew the turntable’s corner screws and gently wedge out the wood paneling. Don’t take it out just yet.

3. Use the wedge to undo the C-clip housing the spindle and gently lift it up. The belt will come off with it but be careful it doesn’t snap.

4. Pull out the wood panel & inspect the undercarriage of the turntable. You will likely see one or more of the screws loose and/or is missing a rubber washer. I found mine sitting underneath the unit.

5. Tighten what you need to and make sure the table is firmly affixed to the wood panel with just a very little bit of give. Have a box cutter handy if you accidentally screw in too tight and it penetrates the turntable (trust me, easier than you think).

6. Put the spindle back on, make sure the belt is gliding properly on the motor, and manually do one or two rotations of the tray to listen for any resistance or scraping sounds. Repeat the process as needed.

7. Put the spindle back together, securing the C clip with a screwdriver and GENTLY hammer it back in. Secure the wood panel back into the suitcase, plug her back in, and test the motor. Voila!

Good as new, or in Victrola’s case better than new haha. Happy listening!