The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi,

I'm attempting to disassemble a no. 2 reproducer in order to replace the gaskets. I removed all the screws, dug out the old flange, and removed the stylus bar. For some reason, I am unable to remove the back cover. I tried prying it open with a screwdriver. Suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks,
Kevin

Take the needle bar off, cut the diaphragm out, and either try to tap it apart, or get a small screw driver and try to wedge it between the two parts from the inside. I'm guessing the red rubber gasket has degraded in such a way that it may be acting as a glue...just a wild guess.

Thanks for the reply. I was hoping to save the diaphragm, but what you are saying makes sense.

Im not sure if heating it might break the stronghold??
And dont worry...mica wont burn

Won't the paper label next to the diaphragm burn?

Ummm....Good point

I ended up punching a hole in the reproducer and heating the gasket with a flame. The rubber became soft enough to pull out. Thanks everyone for your advice.

Regards,
Kevin