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Post by phononurse on Jun 5, 2016 9:17:27 GMT -5
I recently purchased a Edison Diamond Disc phonograph C-250 and have did a little research to find parts. I am very mechanically inclined and I love to work and tinker with stuff like this but I am having trouble finding reliable information of where to find parts and GOOD advice such as types of lubricants to use and where to buy good used records. My machine winds up good (I wind it 15-20 times, according to one website) and turntable spins with a little noise coming from underneath. I plan on tearing down the entire mechanical part and clean, but I need to know what to use to clean and what if anything I should not attempt to do myself. (ie, main spring). I want the machine to sound as good as it looks. Also my reproducer needs to be rebuilt (that was what I was told when I purchased phonograph) and I need to know where to get the parts for that as well. I would really appreciate any information anyone could give. Thanks
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Post by phonoboy on Jun 5, 2016 12:25:28 GMT -5
Under useful links there's a list of people that do repair. The noise you hear under the turn table is most likely an ill adjusted governor. If the phonograph plays through a record all the way and there are no thuds or spring slipping sounds it's probably good. If you do need to clean and regrease the spring there are videos on YouTube. I would also recommend a book called The Complete Talking Machine. As for grease, I use Coastal all purpose grease. Simple Green cleans well. I wind my phonograph to the point of resistance I'm comfortable with. If it doesn't play all the way through you'll just have to winde more and you'll get used to the amount of winde it needs.
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Post by lucius1958 on Jun 6, 2016 2:00:49 GMT -5
I have used a product called "Krud Kutter" with great success on motor parts. If you want to clean the cabinet and bedplate, I would recommend "Gojo" hand cleaner (Non-pumice type) for best results.
I agree with the above that quiet mainsprings, without any thumps or bumps, do not necessarily need to be serviced (besides, DD springs are rather a handful to work with, and are better left to a professional): however, some lithium or molybdenum grease can be injected through the ports (covered by a large screw on the barrels) to be on the safe side. The worm screws on the spindle and governor could perhaps use a little Vaseline; but generally a good lightweight oil, such as Singer sewing machine oil, is best for general lubrication.
As for the reproducer: basic rebuilding should include cleaning and lubrication of the pivot; replacement of the gaskets; careful examination of the stylus for wear or chips (if need be, Stephen Medved is a great rebuilder, and has access to the excellent Bruce diamond styli).
Your best bet for records, if you do not have time to troll antique shops, flea markets, etc., would be the various online auctions, such as Nauck's or Hawthorn's: you will find good evaluations of their condition there. You can always monitor your local Craigslist for offers near you - but always check their condition personally before buying.
Winding: a C-250 will take about 90 turns before it is fully wound: you can add about 10 to 20 turns in between records if you like. When you are finished playing for the while, let the motor run down nearly completely; or else let it run down completely, and then give the crank a couple of turns with the brake on.
Enjoy!
BillS
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