Columbia Grafonola Tabletop Barn Find and info on its restoration

[Inigo]

You're a master! I'll do like you say : looking always at the final goal, not at the work to do in between... That's why I get stuck many times at an intermediate step... Thanks for the advice!

[Herderz]

Thanks guys, Well I started on the louvers. First I routed my back cuts on ¼" oak.

Then I figured the layout for length - 12 ⅞", height 3" and location pivot pin holes 3" center to center. This is based on a horn opening of 13" X 6". I am looking for a 1/16" gap side to side for mounting hardware and linkage.

I set up my drill press vertically to drill the pivot pin holes. No room for error here, they have to be centered and straight. Drilled with a #32 0.117" bit. It took several practice attempts on a scrap board before I got the press set up right.

I pre-mounted the louvers for function and any adjustments before adding the veneer. I just had to tweak the lower cam lever that I fab'd with a slight bend for clearance to the corner post. I am pleased with were I am at so now I can disassemble and veneer and finish.

[dzavracky]

Great job!

David

[Curt A]

Great job!

David

Dittoes... Making the hardware had to be a satisfying feeling...

[Inigo]

Congratulations! Master!

[Herderz]

Thanks guys, I veneered the louvers with tiger oak, centering the book match to match the lid. I got them stained with golden oak ready for shellac.

I got them finished with 10 coats of shellac along with the rest of the case. I put a satin finish on the case #0000 steel wool. I like where I am at and it has the look that I want.

Here is a before and after on the total case.

[Herderz]

While finishing up the case I polished the tone arm and reproducer using MAAS polish on the nickel plate. I cleaned the Mica and cleaned the gasket which was in great shape with no dried cracks or hardening.

[Curt A]

Great restoration...

[Inigo]

Guys... Hats off!

[pg1876]

Truly inspiring - thank you for sharing another exceptional restoration!