The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

hi, i cant open my reproducer. the 3 screws are screwed off, but i cant get off the upper part, has it thread inside?

Can you specify what kind of reproducer it is, or upload a photo?

it is an edison r-reproducer.

Vorbeste, sounds like pot metal issues to me but if you don't get any answer here, (sorry I cannot help), send an email to Steve Medved. Sent you his email address by PM just in case he does not want it published.

I would say pot metal issue too, you might want to put it in an oven for awhile, so the outer part expands, and it might possibly come apart, it is hard to tell, and those are not easy reproducers to find, it is an R right?

The best way I have found is to put it in the freezer overnight. Then, using an L-shaped tool such as an offset screwdriver, pry between the brass lower body and the brass diaphragm retaining ring. Work your way around the unit slowly and carefully. Pry gently but firmly. This process can't be rushed or you risk damage. The parts may separate by only a fraction of an inch the first time. Put it back in the freezer and try again tomorrow. The last one I did took three or four trips to the freezer before it came loose but it did come out without damage. Be sure to stop working with it when it warms up; it will only seize again and you will get no further. Have patience.

Good luck,
Jim

lot of thanks for your help! i will try it. but i am afraid put metal will be more breakable if it will be cold. it is my first work with pot metal reproducer. i hate this material. exists this reproducer with brass top too?

it was not to open so i broke the rim on 3 places and i cnocked out the other brass part.

it became new rim

and nickel plate. the measures are adjusted, fits exactly on horn. low serial nr, 984. the ring in the inside for the fitting was not removable. it is turned out and it became a new made ring. now usable and works as new.