The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

@gibsonj

thanks John,

i thougt RMRM is only the specialist for Victor Exhibition Reproducer Isolators. I never seen HMV No. 4 isolators. Ok i try an inquiry.

regards

guenter

One well known UK collector, who is not a member of this or any other forum, claims great results from his own method of rebuilding the No.4 soundbox.

He fits a much thinner mica diaphragm between individual, smaller and softer gaskets. He reports that with these modifications, even late 78's from the 1950's can be played without distortion.

I cannot confirm his findings as I have never heard one of his No.4's, but I mention his method as a matter of interest.

I am guessing this would also apply to the rubber flange on a Victrola No.2 soundbox? I am having a similar problem with a stuck flange, but was worried about scratching the brass when trying to remove it with a screw driver. I suppose it really won't matter either way considering the new flange gasket will cover up any marks- though it is always better to prevent the damage in the first place if possible.

Are there any special techniques or tools to pry a stuck flange out without scratching up the brass, like a rubber coated screwdriver or something? Thanks...

Victrolaphile wrote:I am guessing this would also apply to the rubber flange on a Victrola No.2 soundbox? I am having a similar problem with a stuck flange, but was worried about scratching the brass when trying to remove it with a screw driver. I suppose it really won't matter either way considering the new flange gasket will cover up any marks- though it is always better to prevent the damage in the first place if possible.

Are there any special techniques or tools to pry a stuck flange out without scratching up the brass, like a rubber coated screwdriver or something? Thanks...

To do my #2 soundboxes I had to take a hammer and tap a small screwdriver down into the rubber, then pry out a chunk. I did this enough to grip the brass fitting with a pliers and pull the rest out.

sathunter wrote:@gibsonj

thanks John,

i thougt RMRM is only the specialist for Victor Exhibition Reproducer Isolators. I never seen HMV No. 4 isolators. Ok i try an inquiry.

regards

guenter

In any event, Rocky Mountain is out of the Exhibition back flange business altogether. The posted link is dead.

Victrolaphile wrote:I am guessing this would also apply to the rubber flange on a Victrola No.2 soundbox? I am having a similar problem with a stuck flange, but was worried about scratching the brass when trying to remove it with a screw driver. I suppose it really won't matter either way considering the new flange gasket will cover up any marks- though it is always better to prevent the damage in the first place if possible.

Are there any special techniques or tools to pry a stuck flange out without scratching up the brass, like a rubber coated screwdriver or something? Thanks...

It's really easy with a heat gun (hair dryer may work), needle-nosed pliers and a leather glove. Lay the back-piece on your work table and heat it until the needle-nosed pliers can sink into the rubber. At this point grab the brass insert and yank the thing out. This way it doesn't stink too badly and you won't cook the paint.-Bill