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Need help?Do you have a question about the GAF TALKING VIEW-MASTER and is the answer not in the manual?
Procedure for ordering replacement parts from GAF Corporation, specifying shipping terms.
Guidance for replacing parts, including tone arm spring, motor assembly, and motor wires.
Instructions for applying light coating of Dow Corning No. 33 Grease to the speaker cone ridge.
Details on required batteries and strobe record, and minimum record speed.
Troubleshooting for non-rotating drive or intermittent operation, covering batteries, contacts, and mechanisms.
Resolving issues like no sound, garbled sound, record squeaks, and tone arm not tracking.
Troubleshooting for sticky levers, failure of picture advance, and tone arm return.
Notes on adjusting record speed by replacing specific springs.
The GAF Talking View-Master is a unique device designed to provide an interactive audio-visual experience, combining the classic View-Master stereoscopic images with synchronized sound. This manual serves as a comprehensive guide for understanding, operating, and maintaining the device, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
The primary function of the GAF Talking View-Master is to present stereoscopic images alongside synchronized audio. Unlike traditional View-Masters that offer only visual storytelling, this device integrates a sound playback mechanism, allowing users to experience narratives, music, or descriptive audio that complements the visual reels. The device utilizes special strobe records, which are played back at a specific speed to maintain synchronization with the image advancement. This integration creates a more immersive and engaging experience, bringing stories and educational content to life through both sight and sound. The sound is emitted through an internal speaker, and the device is powered by batteries, making it portable and easy to use in various settings. The mechanism involves a motor that drives the record, a tone arm with a needle to read the audio information, and a lever system for advancing the images.
Operating the GAF Talking View-Master is designed to be straightforward, allowing users to quickly engage with their content. To begin, users must ensure that fresh batteries are installed, as the device relies on battery power for both motor operation and sound playback. The special strobe records, which contain the audio, are placed onto a designated spindle. The tone arm, equipped with a needle, is then carefully positioned onto the record. Once the record begins to play, the user can advance the stereoscopic images by manipulating a lever. This lever system is crucial for synchronizing the visual progression with the audio narrative. The device is designed for ease of handling, with a form factor that is comfortable for users of various ages. The integrated speaker provides clear audio, enhancing the overall experience. The design also includes a battery hatch cover for easy access and replacement of batteries. The device's portability allows it to be used in different environments, from a child's bedroom to a classroom setting, making it a versatile tool for entertainment and education. The interactive nature of advancing the images manually encourages user engagement and control over the pace of the experience.
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the continued functionality and longevity of the GAF Talking View-Master. The manual provides detailed instructions for various maintenance tasks, including part replacement and lubrication. When replacing parts, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines, such as ensuring that the spring under the tone arm is firmly seated and touching the metal washer, and that the other end of the spring is correctly positioned over the boss on the front assembly. For early models, the grip ring, or E-ring for late models, must be installed 1/16 inch from the end of the shaft. A significant maintenance feature is the ability to remove the motor assembly without necessarily removing the tone arm, simplifying repairs. This involves loosening a screw, swinging a stop away from the motor prong, squeezing the prong, and swinging the motor assembly out. In some early viewers, a plastic lock may need to be replaced with a stop (Part No. 445-124).
Electrical maintenance involves unsoldering motor lead wires and noting their assembly before removal. When replacing wires, the red wire lead must be soldered to the battery contact (negative on the motor to negative on the battery). Lubrication is another critical aspect of maintenance. A light coating of Dow Corning No. 33 Grease (light-silicone) should be applied to the high ridge of the speaker cone. However, a crucial caution is to keep grease off the belt and motor shaft to prevent operational issues. The manual also includes a comprehensive troubleshooting chart to help users diagnose and resolve common problems. For instance, if the record drive does not rotate, potential causes include dead batteries, a faulty switch, broken motor wires, or a faulty motor. Remedies range from installing new batteries and cleaning contacts to replacing specific parts like the motor (Item 5). If the record drives but produces no sound, issues could include a broken tone arm, a missing or broken needle, or a damaged speaker cone, all of which have corresponding replacement or repair steps. Lever stickiness, picture advance problems, and record speed issues are also addressed with clear solutions. For record speed adjustments, the manual suggests replacing spring (7) with a red spring to increase speed or a green spring to decrease speed. For record squeaks, especially on viewers with a tan intermediate plate, applying two drops of light oil to the back (ungrooved) side of the record and rotating it is recommended. For other viewers, replacing Item 13 and checking/replacing the needle are suggested. These detailed maintenance instructions empower users to keep their GAF Talking View-Master in optimal working condition, extending its lifespan and ensuring a consistent, high-quality audio-visual experience.
General| Category | Media Player |
|---|---|
| Model | GAF Talking View-Master |
| Power Source | 2 x C Batteries |
| Media Type | Reels |
| Type | Viewer |
| Features | Talking |
