The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I am trying to take apart a Edison Standard Suitcase top that has a crack in the wood top. I have tried using vinegar to loosen the joints but that did not work. A heat gun was suggested which I am going to try. But I was wondering if anyone knew the type of glue that was used on the cases and if anyone else has successfully taken one apart. My goal is to shorten the sides by ⅛" and eliminate the crack in the top when I glue it back together.

Rich Gordon

I think they used hide glue. steam could do the trick too.

I would bet real money that it was assembled with hide-glue; this was the standard furniture glue up through WW II.

It is still used by instrument makers and antique conservators. It has the advantage of being "reversible" - joints can be taken apart and reglued again; many times if necessary.


It can be "released" with judicious application of heat and moisture at the glue joint. This is why "built-up" furniture begins to shed veneer and "carved" pieces when stored in damp basements, etc.


When using hide-glue for assembling furniture, the glue crystals are dissolved in water, then heated to approximately 140 degrees F, and kept at that temperature in a "glue-pot".

So, in theory, the glue needs to be heated again to at least 140 deg F to get it to melt & release. A little water applied along the seam of the glue joint before / during heating will help loosen the glue.


Be VERY careful with a heat-gun: they can scorch finish / wood in an instant.

Forum experts such as George Paul or Mica Monster probably have more specific advice for this sort of careful disassembly...