The Secret Society of Lathe Trolls

I'll read that manual. It sounds like my first suspicion was correct- I don't have the knowledge, money, or equipment to get this beautiful machine to actually cut a record. Cleaning the motor/transmission sounds like the first task to getting it to run quietly and for another 70 years. Thanks again

The needle on mine looks like it's made out of crystal. What would that cut? And the amp I would need-is a special one for cutting? I have dozens of amps-tube and solid state.

No two ways about it, you guys are the best! I will do just that when I get home. Any suggestions on where to pick up blank vinyl, in case I want to try to cut a disc with it?

I posted that auction on eBay at the same time I asked for the forums help. It might have been premature, but I doubted that my item was worth salvaging. I now know it's mostly complete and may be worth testing. If I test it and it works, I will probably pull the auction. I don't want you to think I...

I appreciate all the help. I have not tried to test it- where do I get a tester? How does it work?

Hmm. It's working on my screen. I tried uploading pics, but the "Browse" button doesn't do anything. If you search youtube for a fairchild 199 I'm sure my 3 vids will pop right up.

Here is the vid of the undercarriage as promised-

Restore it, yes. Use it? I doubt I have ANY of the appropriate equipment, or funds, necessary to actually cut a record with it. If it is missing, say 50%, of the original pieces, I will just sell it. If it's close to complete, I may source those parts and refurb it. Museum it.

I was very fortunate to acquire a Fairchild 199 Lathe and I know nothing about it or record cutting. I doubt I will ever use it as it was intended, but instead keep it in my "collection that ticks off my wife". I was hoping your collective wealth of knowledge can let me know what is missing from it....