The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello,
I picked up a nice oak table top model VV-VIII. Unfortunately someone has refinished the exterior of the case. The finish is a little cloudy, probably used one of those combination stain and finishes. It wouldn't have been too bad except for some reason they decided to stain the base moulding black!! When the weather gets a little warmer I will strip off this finish and apply some shellac. I am having problems removing the reproducer from the tone arm it is seized tight. It looks like the isolator has swollen. Also it may have had some varnish brushed in the seams between the end of the tone arm and the isolator. Any ideas as to how I can get this reproducer off??
thanks
Pete

Hi Pete,

Aside from the amateurish refinish, that's a nice machine. The grain pattern will look really nice once it has the appropriate finish. Is it a No 2 or an Exhibition reproducer?

I would start with removing the entire tone arm and setting it on its side. Then I would put a few drops of penetrating oil at the reproducer connection and let it sit for a little while. That may loosen it enough for you to free it. Just be careful with it.

Good luck!