Added a nice XVI to the collection yesterday

[UncleAl]

I recently inherited a Victrola model XI. Judging from the serial number, I think it was made in 1917. My problem is that after having played it a number of times, my wife presented me with the original key, which had been in her possession since she was a little girl and had thus been separated from the unit. When I tested the key -- Sure enough! It locked the top shut. Unfortunately it won't UNlock the top.

Any ideas on how to get the unit unlocked without damaging it?!

[gramophone78]

Could you please post a pic of the key. This is just to rule out being the wrong key. There should be a "V" on the end that is circled (see attached).

You may also want to press the lid a bit while turning the key. Sometimes with age it's a bit tight. You could also try the opposite and lift the lid slightly while trying to unlock.

[Silvertone]

Any ideas on how to get the unit unlocked without damaging it?!

Go to a lock shop or key maker and get a squeeze bottle of graphite. Spray the graphite into the key hole and work the key back and forth. It may take several applications, but eventually it should free up. Sprays such as WD-40 can gum up the works, so graphite is the recommended treatment.

I've had this exact problem myself, so I can vouch for the remedy.

[emerson]

About plating---check with whoever is going to be doing the plating about having the screws or not with the knobs. I left mine in and when the knobs came back the screws and knobs were plated into one piece. I had assumed they would use the screws to protect the threads----my assumption was incorrect.