[ODPILOT]

Got my new idler arm and drive belt from V/M enthusiasts website. The brass bearing in the idler wheel ( as well as the rest of the idler wheel) was PERFECT. Fit right on the spindle. Together with the little drive belt, I reinstalled it all, having first cleaned all the surfaces. I put just a dab of white lithium grease in the brass bearing. ...and you're right, all the lubricant on the surfaces was dry and brittle, so I cleaned it all up as best I could (rubbing alchohol with some Q-tips worked well) and relubed with some white lithium grease. This phonograph came back to life. The record platform spins quietly and starts up all by itself (I had to give it a start push before I replaced these parts). I put one of my Dad's OLD Al Jolson's records on and played it - almost brought me to tears, it's like a time machine !! Thanks.