The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I've tried to search for advice, but was not successful.

How is the front grill on a Brunswick phonograph (Model 120) removed? It seems to have room to slide up, but not enough to actually pull out of the cabinet. The one on my machine is in very good condition other than the wrinkled finish, and seems to have the original red grill cloth. I obviously do not want to damage either.

Also, is it possible to removed the built in record file drawers?

Thanks.

The grill should be able to lift up far enough to clear the bottom. You may need to remove the motor board for look inside to see what is causing the grill to bind. The file drawers are removed by sliding them out as far as they will come out and then reaching around to the back and pulling the little metal limit pin. This is best accomplished by starting on the either outside end and working your way across. Hope this helps. Jan
PS. Welcome.

Thanks, Jan.

Looks like the grill is getting hung up on the piece of moulding at the top of the record cabinet area, which might have swelled from moisture damage. Need to play with that a bit.

Thanks for the advice regarding the record drawers. Found the retention pin! That was easier than expected.

Attached is a photo of the machine, direct from the garage where it was stored. Needs some TLC, but certainly not a basket case.

Just as a bit of follow up...

I finally have the grill removed. The top moulding of the record cabinet must have swelled. Slight pressure downward allowed me to slide the grill forward.

In doing so, I discovered that the current grill cloth is not original. It is attached with thumbtacks, and is a simple pale red cotton woven fabric. Underneath, I did find remnants of the original cloth, which seemed to be a very lightweight silk in a russet color. I'm going to try to find something that matches closely, especially since russet is one of the accent colors in the room where the phonograph will eventually go.

I was also able to establish definitive provenance for the machine going back until at least the 70's, although it changed hands 3 times. I feel a bit less concerned about doing work on it, and replacing various damaged parts, as now I know that, while in decent shape, it is not fully original.

Shy of a couple of coats of polish and wax, I'm just about done with the restoration. Here are some new photos.

Yes, I cheated and replaced the original tone arm with a later model all brass one I obtained in excellent condition. Figured it was worth it, as I intend to use and enjoy the phonograph. I retained the original tone arm, though it is slightly damaged, just in case.

The photos were also taken at a time before which I reattached the lid. I had removed it as the bracket had torn out before I obtained the phonograph, and the hinge was ripping out of the lid.

Looking good.