The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

How does one clean up the grease that drips down onto the wooden horns? I'm sure some of this grease has been there for nearly a century. Most degreasing agents will remove the grease but it also stains the wood. Perhaps it is wishful thinking, but is there a way to remove the grease and leave an original finish to the wood?

Thanks! CDB

The first thing I'd try is Simple Green. Jerry B.

I've had good luck with Kotten Klenser.

+1 on the Simple Green. You can even dilute it with water to lower the strength, but even with
a high concentration I've never had issues with it.

Use a hair dryer set on low to soften the grease and you can probably remove most of it that way-you can follow up with chemical of your choice but it will take much less to clean it and will reduce risk of affecting the wood color.
Abe

I have used "SUPER CLEAN" by http://www.supercleanbrands.com
I get it at the Automotive store in 32 ounce spray Bottles.
PURPLE BOTTLE is the one I use. Paid $8 a bottle at my local Automotive store.

As with any cleaner test small area first.
Follow Directions on the Bottle .

WOW what a Cleaner. Full strength it will remove Paint if left on for long.

I use it to clean the Grease from the bottom of the Amberola Cabinets/

I also use it on Radio Chassis . I have NEVER found a more powerful cleaner to remove Grease..and GRIME

Bob T

Be careful with Super Clean, Purple Power, Awesome Stuff, and similar degreasing chemicals.

They are very effective, but they are also quite alkaline... they will discolor and dissolve aluminum, soften fingernails, and cause exposed skin to dry and crack like you wouldn't believe.


I've used all of the above for degreasing automotive parts and other mechanical stuff, have never tried them on wood.

The residue should be washed-off thoroughly with water and / or neutralized with a mild acid, such as vinegar.

I know that if something porous such as stone or marble is stained by grease or oil, typically a poultice of diatomaceous earth is applied to the stain. The d.e. will gradually wick the stain from the stone. The poultice needs to be reapplied frequently to bring fresh d.e. in contact with the stain.

I must have missed this one first time around. If you are describing oil/grease dripping from the motor suspended above an internal horn... Why bother? Isn't that side of the horn hidden inside the cabinet?

If not, what condition are you trying to clean?