Is that a Voice of Music or Glaser Steers? IIRC Emerson used either. I have a G-S in a Philco but have not worked on it yet.
If its a V-M, make sure the motor is sitting at the right height, the rubber grommet motor mounts get dry and it drops, then the idler is not riding in the middle of the step on the motor shaft.
Also, there is a tension spring and/or rod that pulls the idler bracket toward the platter and shaft. Make sure its free to operate when the player is switched on.
Usually, i have to bite the bullet and get the tire replaced
