The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Ok guys, I've never had this happen. I have a four door Credenza with a grille that I can't get out. I've removed the four screws and the motorboard, but I can't get it to slide up and out. I can force it up by prying on it but only a couple inches. It has play above and below the center section of the horn. Anyone delt with this problem before? Any tips or tricks to get this out without destroying the grille or having to alter the horn? All help and ideas greatly appreciated.

Regards, Wes

Is it possible that the machine was in a hostile environment prior to your acquisition and it needs time to dry? Jerry

No, I don't think so Jerry. It's been stored in my parents climate controlled basement for a couple years. My first thought was that if it were colder out I might have a little better luck getting it out, but the one I am replacing it with just slid right out with no problems. The grill itself is in fine shape, its the cloth that is bad, hence the reason to swap them out. Also, cutting the grill cloth is ok since it's bad so I can see where I suspect its binding. What about liquid soap as a lubricant where its binding?

Wes

Maybe try powdered graphite?
Bob

Thanks Bob, that's something I hadn't thought of.

Wes

downsouth wrote:Thanks Bob, that's something I hadn't thought of.

Wes

Talc powder might be less messy.
Dave

Well, I finally got it out. I tried baking soda hoping it would decrease the friction. The problem appeared to be the horn itself. Once I was able to coax the grille out ( about an hour and a half) with prying up back and forth from side to side. I noticed that the center of the horn where it actually comes in contact with the cloth appeared to have swolen about 1/8th if an inch not allowing me to slide the replacement grille in, Soooo, against my better judgement, I had to do a little surgery and remove the excess to allow the grille room to slide back in its original space. I hated to do it, but I had no choice.

Wes