Tom's Voice of Music Idler (P/N V.M.-35429-M.R.) Repair Guide
Welcome to my webpage for those interested in repairing the non-functioning idler used in certain Voice of Music record changers made in the 1960s or 1970s. Since you're reading this, you are likely familiar with this part used in some vintage 4-speed record changer mechanisms and how the soft rubber loses its suppleness over time, eventually becoming "hard as a rock." This deterioration inevitably leads to the inoperability of the mechanism due to friction loss, so replacement of the part is required. Unfortunately, as is the case with many obsolete items, the original part is unlikely to be available at a reasonable price, leading to the alternative of either spending $40 or more to have the original idler rebuilt, or somehow doing a workaround. While others have reached the conclusion that there is little chance of a "hack" of the wheel working reliably in the long term, I believe I have figured out a way to do it, as described in the freely-downloadable document linked below. It is a relatively easy procedure that the average person should be able to do if the instructions are followed carefully.
To view the illustrated document in .pdf format, CLICK HERE