The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I always thought when I placed the lid on a case that nothing touched except the wood of the case and the wood of the lid. I was wrong and the various bits of rubber put three dents into the fairly fresh shellac of the bedplate I am restoring. Should the three rough braces be removed from the inside of the lid? Thanks!

I always thought those pieces were there to protect the machine during shipping from the factory and then removed once it reached the dealer.

Jerry B.

Well then I guess they are coming off.

mjbarnes wrote: Tue Aug 13, 2024 11:26 pm the various bits of rubber put three dents into the fairly fresh shellac of the bedplate

"Fresh" shellac is the thing to look out for. As you've learned here, don't put anything on shellac until it is completely cured. (Think in terms of 3 to 4 months or more.) I've seen several Triumph lids with those supports over the years. I think they're cool, add support to the lid, and are a piece of the machine's history. Hopefully, the dents didn't set you too far back in your restoration. It's all an education process. Sometimes I learn the same lessons over and over.

Regards,
Martin

I have a few with the braces in the lid and I prefer to leave them in. Makes it showroom original

Might help to leave the braces considering how flimsy Edison machine lids are?