The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Last night a fellow forum member PMd me with a question on what I use to remove stubborn governor screws. After I returned his PM it occurred to me that this is a recommendation I'd like to share, so here it is.

About a year ago I was working on an Amberola 1A mechanism (not mine) when I encountered a tiny screw that simply would not budge. I tried soaking with Liquid Wrench for a couple of days. Then I tried soaking with PB Blaster for a couple of days. I tried a torch, then combinations of heat and penetrating oils. It was the toughest little screw I've ever encountered in 46 years of collecting. I happened to be in Wal-Mart looking for something else when I noticed this little screwdriver set. I was impressed with the range of bit sizes - especially the tiny slotted ones we so often need. The set was something like eight bucks, so I thought it was worth a try. When I got home I went straight to the shop to see if that Amberola screw had finally met its match. I found the driver tip that was just right for the screw. I popped it into the handle, inserted the blade into the screw and applied torque. Nothing. Okay, I applied more torque... Still nothing. I was already exerting far more torque than my little skinny-handled "jeweler's screwdrivers" could generate, and I've bent the blades of those darn things before. Oh well...it was only eight bucks after all, and that screw HAD to come out, so my mighty hand clenched the handle with walnut-breaking force and I slowly increased the torque... With a distinct "POP" - - the screw broke loose! The blade never bent, and I was as happy as could be. Over the past year I've reached for this little kit many times and it hasn't failed me yet. The difference that handle makes is surprising. Good quality for eight bucks!

George P.

That sounds like a good deal. I'm going to get one of these kits. What I did was get a long, thin screw driver like a Craftsman and grind the blade down, so it will fit in the slot of the tiny screw. The length of the screw driver will give the proper torque. All these years, it works fine. For 8 bucks, I have to try this out.
Harvey Kravitz

Thanks for the tip!
I've had my best luck using "SiliKroil" from Kano Laboratories

www.kanolabs.com

This works after you've tried liquid wrench and PB blaster!

Thanks again!
Bob

Got an awesome set at harbor freight with hard tips for under 10 bucks.

Just got back from Walmart. I'm very impressed with this set. With sales tax, it was $7.50. It looks well made and sturdy. I can't believe it, something made in China with quality. Kroil is a good product. I've used it too. George, I like the ruler with the Victor advertizing on it. Very nice.
Harvey Kravitz

I'm glad you're pleased so far, Harvey. But just wait until you use it! It really is surprising quality.

And I'm not surprised similar sets are available at Harbor Freight and elsewhere. I'll never go back to those skinny metal things with the black blades that bend!

George P.

I did use it. I had an HMV Exhibition that I am rebuilding. The 3 screws were so stubborn, that I, too was messing up the jeweler's screw drivers. This set worked great, and I am pleased with it. Are you getting a commission from Walmart?
Harvey Kravitz

Thanks for the heads up George. I'll have to stop out to Walmart and grab a set, one can never have too many tools!

phonogfp: Where can I get one of those 6" rulers like the one in your first photograph?

Henry wrote:phonogfp: Where can I get one of those 6" rulers like the one in your first photograph?

Just go to Reilly Bros., of course! They give them away for free!

Of course, it might be a little too late to get one now...

George P.