Jukeboxes by the Automatic Music Instrument Company (AMI)AMI began in 1909 as the National Automatic Music Co, making automatic player pianos. Having designed a mechanism which allowed music rolls to be selected, this was adapted for use in phonographs, the first of which was produced in 1927.
The mechanism used was the first that could play both sides of 10 records, allowing 20 selections. Aside from modifications to extend the number of selections, this mechanism was used for the next 30 years. The company was renamed to the Automatic Musical Instrument Company (AMI) after World War 2.
AMI/Rowe Jukebox technical tipsLast updateJanuary 26, 2020- thanks to (Flamingo Records/Auto. AU) for this list!Whenfirst looking at an older AMI/Rowe jukebox (prior to 1970's) the very first item to be checked is the condition of the electrical cords within the jukebox AND the power cord for signs of deterioration. The 'lamp' cord used in most of the 40's to 60's models is breaking down by now and you will see at the plugs or on the wire itself that pieces of the insulation are shattering off. This is both a fire and safety hazard! You MUST replace any brittle wiring within the jukebox! This is a relatively easy job as this wire is normally just used for the lights and the amplifier, and can easily be traced, and replacement wire installed.As for the power cord, be sure to flex it close to your ear and if you hear any crinkling sounds from inside the wire cable, then it too MUST be replaced.Common problems with the AMI jukeboxes - including the Continental series - include:Gummed selection pins due to the use of oil or WD-40 - these must not be lubricated!
Rowe AMI MM-3 “Music Miracle” MM-4 “Trimount” (1969-70) Manual Jukebox Manual available $15 Download at jukeboxmanuals.com More information Find this Pin and more on jukeboxes by Cecil Worley.
Here are pictures of the take-apart and reassembly process. Wash the pins in solvent along with the metal spring clips and the holes they fit in (Q-tip or similar) to get them moving smootly with no trace of gumminess. I think the pictures below are pretty clear, but can expand if requested.Removing & replacing pins on AMI jukebox memory.The wiper ring blades that connect the ferris wheel drum electricals to the machine are dirty.Here are the wiper blades and their rings, you can see these from under the front of the mechanism towards the center.clean the copper rings with an ink eraser and check that the wipers have some pressure on the rings once remounted.The microswitches that control the selection and cancel of the pins are faulty.Check all the machines microswitches with an ohm-meter.
The readings should be steady once the switch has 'clicked' (either way). If the reading bounces around while pushing on the microswitch actuator after hearing the click then I suggest you change the micro-switch. Best if you have an analog meter, but a digital one works fine as long as it is not one of those auto-ranging ones.For the folks new to multimeters about the safest use you can put them to for servicing jukeboxes is the Resistance tests.
These are all best done with the jukebox unplugged. You simply need to gain experience in reading resistance across contacts of switches, microswitches, and blade switches/wipers to learn if they are working correctly or not.It is very important to have a good connection between the probes of your meter and the item you are testing.