[Jeffhs]

It looks like the record changer is in bad shape -- the pickup arm looks as if it's been torn off its pivot, the record spindle is bent ... and I don't know what else could be wrong. This unit will need a major overhaul before anyone can even think about using it, with the bad wiring and all (probably rubber-covered wire that's deteriorated with age).

I'd replace the Beam-O-Lite record changer with a modern one, unless you want to preserve the authenticity of this unit. There is a phono preamp tube in the radio/amp chassis (type XXFM) that will have to be removed or bypassed if a modern changer is used; if you leave the preamp in the circuit, the output of any modern cartridge will overdrive the tube many times over, resulting in horrible tone quality.

The Beam-O-Lite pickup was a rather low-output device, hence the need for the preamp. Moreover, it is a single-speed changer (probably 78 RPM), so unless you have a bunch of 78s you'd like to hear again (or transfer to tape), I'd replace the changer with a modern four-speed one, if such can still be found in this age of CDs and mp3s. If you are intent on replacing the Beam-O-Lite changer with an authentic one, however, I'd look for a junker console similar to the one you have and get the changer from it. I don't know how common these combinations are anymore, but you could probably still find one on eBay or even CL if you do some looking. Finding parts for one of these old changers could be like finding a needle in a haystack.