Model K Reproducer Stuck in Carriage of Maroon Gem

[Phonofolks]

Hello all. I have a Maroon Gem with a Model K reproducer that is stuck in its carriage. The reproducer looks in good condition and it sounds good, but I am certain the top of the reproducer is made of pot metal. Any suggestions on how to remove the reproducer from the carriage without damaging it or should I just leave the whole thing alone and not bother with it? Thank you in advance for any suggestions.

Rick

[gramophoneshane]

Have you tried removing the carriage and putting it in the freezer overnight?

[JohnM]

If it doesn't come out using the tricks of the trade, you may have to sacrifice the pot metal body and rebuild the reproducer using a donor brass body from a common C or H. The bodies of all three are the same, and there are plenty of busted-up C's and H's around that it would be easy and inexpensive to obtain one.

[gemering]

I have done what JohnM recommended on two different Edison phonographs in the past.
Both machines were found with swollen Model K reproducers that were potmetal and both times I was able to purchase good Model C brass housings to replace the swollen potmetal ones.
Both machines and reproducers are now fixed for life!
Good luck!
Gene

[phonojim]

You can press it out by various methods. The first thing you should do is to remove the weight and hinge while the body is still in the carriage. Then, find a piece of pipe which is slightly less than the bottom of the bottom of the body of the reproducer. Support the top of the carriage suitably so that the top of the reproducer is clear of the support. Ideally you should use a ring or piece of pipe of which the inside diameter is slightly larger than the outside diameter of the reproducer top and longer than the total height of the reproducer body. Set this up on your bench with the bottom facing up. Hold the pipe against the bottom of the reproducer and carefully tapping against it. The reproducer should come out evenly and without damage. If you can do this setup in a vice, it will work better because you can supply a more even and controlled pressure.
I do have one question, though: does it really need a rebuild? If it is playing well and the gaskets are not leaking, you may be looking at more work than you need to do at this time.

Jim

[debndunk]

Hi, I have had exactly the same problem with a model D Gem earlier this week I managed to free my reproducer which was stuck good and proper by taking the carriage arm off and spraying around the two surfaces that were stuck together with release oil. letting it soak for 2 days then using a piece of soft wood and a light weight hammer tapping lightly and working my way around the reproducer. This worked for me. Gordon

[Phonofolks]

I thank everyone for all their advice. As usual it's all very helpful.

[Shane]

My vote is to try the freezer method first. Put it in the freezer overnight, and try to remove it while it is still cold. I've had it work wonders. You can file down the outside rim of the reproducer afterwards. I'd try that first before going on to a more aggressive method.

[Phonofolks]

Thank you Shane!