The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

This probably has been asked before, but what is the best way to remove old, hard rubber from a Victor Exhibition back flange, and clean the brass center insert?

Getting rubber cold or hot helps get it out. Either freeze it or warm it with a hairdryer then scrape with a piece of plastic card. Paper, wood, or brass/steel wool can risk scratching the blackened brass.

I’ve found that soaking old rubber in a mild solvent, like isopropyl alcohol, can sometimes soften it enough to gently pry it off without damaging the brass. Have you considered using a rubber-safe cleaner to break down any residue after removal? Also, for cleaning the brass center insert, have you tried a microfiber cloth with a brass polish to avoid scratching while restoring the shine?