Belt tensioner arm on and Edison Fireside A phonograph

[nippers_lounge]

As some of you know I am the owner of an Edison Fireside model A Phonograph. I have managed to put this machine back in somewhat working order, but I’ve hit a snag.  The belt tension arm is preventing the belt from moving the mandrel. When I have the machine open, I can get the mandrel to move, but not when it’s closed? I have noticed that the tensioner tends to stick? Now correct me if I am wrong, but shouldn’t the arm move a bit more freely?