Amberola 30 reproducer questions

[akira23]

The Amberola 30 I have plays, but it sounds almost like an echo, I've searched the web and is seems that the reproducer/stylus is the issue.  So here are my "noob" questions.

1st.  Is there a place which has a break down on how to remove the reproducer from the carriage?

2nd.  Does anyone know of a repair service in Florida?

3rd.  If not in Florida, best repair service (reputable), I know 'best' is subjective.

Thanks all in advance!

-Marty

[lucius1958]

First: are you getting any skipping or repeating as well? The pivot on the weight may be stiff, and need cleaning and lubrication.

To remove the reproducer from the carriage, first loosen the thumb screw(s) on the carriage. Then carefully lift up the neck of the horn until the reproducer is free (you may have to twist the reproducer a bit to make sure the stylus doesn't hit the carriage).

If the reproducer is still stuck in the carriage, even when you've taken the screws out, it may be that the pot metal body has swollen over time. You can start by removing the motor from the case, removing the horn, then removing the carriage shaft. Try applying some penetrating oil around the edge of the reproducer, letting it sit for some time, and then *gently* tapping around the edge with a brass rod and a small hammer until the reproducer comes free. Another trick is to put the carriage assembly in the freezer overnight, then try tapping it out. You can either carefully file down the outer edge until it fits properly, or ask a repairer to have it turned down on a lathe.

Once you've got the reproducer free, take a high-powered jeweler's loupe and look closely at the stylus. If you see a flat spot or a chip, that means you'll have to replace it. It would be a good idea to check the condition of the diaphragm, gaskets and link as well.

For rebuilds, there are a number of good restorers around: I don't specifically know about the Southeast area, but you could check the Talking Machine Forum, which has a good list of repairers and suppliers:

forum.talkingmachine.info/

I hope this helps.

BillS

[akira23]

Thanks Bill!

I appreciate the advice, I will try this out later this week.

Cheers,
M

[nefaurora]

This post is in the wrong forum. Please move it to the "Cylinder Phonographs" forum.

Thank You.

)

Tony K.