The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I have a lock from a VV-XVI "L" door that is stuck in the locked position. I've tried several keys, lots of lubrication, and trying to figure it out myself. Does anyone fix these? I'd like to try and keep it since it is original to the cabinet.

The VTLA's and the early VV-XVIA used the wreath key whick has a different cut.
I thought I had a bad lock on an early XVI but it turned out to work fine with the
wreath key.

I would do that first, try a wreath key. If it turns out that your machine has a broken lock, I have an extra. I have taken a lock apart before and got it to work. It's not pretty though. If you could post some pictures of your lock I can compare it to a lock that takes the standard V key.

Greg is right... I have fixed them before, but it they are badly rusted, they need to be disassembled which requires grinding off the peened ends of the small flat pieces that hold the lock together, so that the halves can be separated. Then they have to be re-assembled, which may be a challenge depending on your mechanical skills...

Here’s a picture of the lock I have. It’s not super pretty, but it works well and should give you an idea of what the V key lock looks like. If it turns out you need this one, let me know.

Greg