Repairing Mica Diaphragm

[nuke]

Hello,
First post here. What is the best way.to repair a mica diaphragm? Can one use super glue? See attached. Thx

[Lah Ca]

I have diaphragms that look as if they have been repaired using shellac, but this was for separation of layers of mica, not for a big hole. And I don't think the repairs offered optimal sound.

It is better to rebuild the reproducer. Replace the mica and gaskets. Clean up and lightly lubricate the needle bar pivots.

Mica and generic gasket tubing and bees' wax are not expensive. I have had good service from The Phonograph Shop for this stuff.

Rebuilding a reproducer is not a terribly difficult job. It just requires patience and caution. Go slowly. Don't force anything.

Watch some Youtube videos on how to dismantle and rebuild similar reproducers. Take things apart. Measure what sizes of stuff you need. I always order extra to allow for errors.

And if you don't want to do it yourself, there are people who specialize in rebuilds and who are reported to be wizards at the work.

[Curt A]

The most difficult part of a rebuild, is keeping track of and replacing the tiny screw on the back of the mica...

[LimeTree99]

The most difficult part of a rebuild, is keeping track of and replacing the tiny screw on the back of the mica...

I've dropped that little screw over a carpet before. It took 10+ minutes with a flashlight and a strong magnet to find. Now I just use those magnetic tipped screwdrivers, and work over a large bowl.

[Curt A]

Good idea. I have an inherited tremor in both hands, which makes it impossible to keep the screw on the end of a magnetic screwdriver. So, i put the screw through the mica and hold it in place with a small piece of scotch tape. Once the screw is started into the needlebar, I remove the tape... I've spent way too much time looking for those elusive screws.

[Dischoard]

Definitely not necessary to fix the mica, replacements are available from the Phonograph Shop for a nominal price. Good luck!

[jboger]

My advice: Use a proper screwdriver for all screws. Those little screws, whether on the back of the reproducer or with the stylus, can be quite stubborn. My eyes are not as good as they once were. I now use a loupe to make sure I have the right screwdriver and that it is seated properly in the slot. You might need to grind down a screwdriver to insure it fits. This can be done on a whetstone.