The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello, I'm pretty new to this forum and to Talking Machines in general. I just bought my first Edison (a Home Model B with a 4-min upgrade and a Diamond B reproducer) only a few months ago and have dissembled the motor and now need to give it a good cleaning (it's in pretty good shape and not too filthy, but it needs a soaking and a brushing).

So far, so good. Here's the problem: I am solvent illiterate. Through some reading on this subject I have seen suggestions for petrol or paraffin but what other options for solvent work that would be available in the US? To be honest, and remember I'm new to this, the thought of sitting with a tub of gasoline doesn't exactly appeal to me, but if that's the best (or only) option, then so be it. Someone also suggested Brasso for the brass parts.

Thank you!

Believe it or not, plain old vegetable cooking oil is an incredible solvent for grease and oil. I learned this 40 years ago watching roofers clean-up roofing tar with it. Cooking oil does not have the flammability and toxicity of petroleum distillate solvents.

Petrol & paraffin=gasoline & kerosene.

You can use mineral spirits.

The cooking-oil one sounds rather nice, but I've not tried it yet.

For polish, skip Brasso & use Blue Magic or Flitz or Simichrome.

Good luck with your new machine & welcome to the Talking Machine Forum!

Low odor mineral spirits is the way to go. Get a large can, put your parts inside and pour in some mineral spirits. It worked great for me when I serviced Victrola springs.

Diesel fuel works great,and it's easier and cheaper to get in larger quantities, too.

simple green cleaner it works

A mix of ammonia, oil soap, mineral spirits, acetone, and water is what I have found to be an effective cleaner for phonograph motors and springs.

https://youtu.be/6STO2aCcRl8?list=PL3n0 ... vW1JaFBl9g

I always use either naphtha or mineral spirits. Always make sure the area is well ventilated before using any kind of solvent.

Thank you everyone for the great info! I would really like to try the vegetable oil and see how it works out. Otherwise, you've all given me plenty of other options to look at. Thanks again!