Columbia No. 9 soundbox back flange

[CharliePhono]

Anyone have experience fabricating one of these from black silicone sealant? I am to understand this is the only way to replace the shrunken, hardened and/or cracked originals. As well, what was used to seal these flanges to the soundbox itself? It's unfortunate these are not being remanufactured; the Victor counterparts are readily available. Thanks in advance for any help.

[Phono48]

I wouldn't use silicone, it's too soft and difficult to shape. I've used this stuff, which you simply mould to shape, leave overnight, and it sets into a soft, pliable rubber.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Sugru-Mouldab ... rkt%3D1%26

Barry

[CharliePhono]

I wouldn't use silicone, it's too soft and difficult to shape. I've used this stuff, which you simply mould to shape, leave overnight, and it sets into a soft, pliable rubber.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Sugru-Mouldab ... rkt%3D1%26

Barry

Thank you much, Barry. I've been reading about it online and will most likely order some. I'm wondering then how to properly mold it such that it looks fairly decent and not a misshapen (though probably functional) mass behind the soundbox.

Charlie

[Phono48]

Pat the Sugru flat, then dust with talcum powder to prevent sticking, and roll it to the desired thickness with a rolling pin or bottle. then find something round that is the same diameter as the inner circumference of the required washer to use as a cutter. (I found a plastic pill bottle) and press it into the Sugru, rotating it to cut right through. Carefully remove the cutter, and the spare Sugru from the centre, then find another cutter the same size as the outer diameter, and do the same with that.If you make a mistake, roll the whole lot up into a ball and start again. Despite what the instructions say, you have about an hour to mess about with it. Brilliant stuff, I've used it to make replacement feet for portables, gaskets for soundboxes, and insulating inserts for the backs of HMV soundboxes.

Barry

[CharliePhono]

That's amazing stuff! Thank you again so much for the tip(s). This will became a staple in my armament of phono repair items.

Best regards,
Charlie