Amberola 30 Restoration

[frank]

I am beginning a restoration of an Amerola 30. My first task is to take it apart to clean and inspect each piece. I have managed to get everything removed from the base plate with the exception of the center shaft on the to side that holds the cylinder. Image attached. Does this screw into the cast post or should attempt to drive it out. I have loosened the nut on the end. 

Thanks for the help...I will have lots of images and questions as this process progresses. By the way, is there an exploded drawing the names all the components somewhere? I want to learn and use the proper nomenclature.

[lucius1958]

Unless the mandrel shaft is bent or damaged in any way, it is better to leave it be.

My first phonograph was an Amberola 30; it has served me well as a guinea pig for restoration attempts.

BillS

[frank]

The Mandrel Shaft (thank you for the correct terminology) is not bent or damaged. Ass you have suggested, I will work around it.

I have successfully dismantled the Amberola and have cleaned all the components. Now to the reassembly. What lubricants are suggested? It appeared that a black lithium like grease was used by the previous owner.

[lucius1958]

Lithium or molybdenum grease is generally recommended for mainsprings and heavy gearing: the original vaseline/graphite mixture tends to harden with age.

For finer gearing and bearings, sewing machine oil is widely recommended.

A useful tip: insulating the points of contact on the horn (rubber tubing on the hook for the suspension spring, and felt or leather washers at the bottom pivot point), as well as sheathing the suspension spring in rubber, will make a noticeable improvement in sound.

BillS

[frank]

BillS,

Thanks for the tips on sound.

I am a horologist and have access to clock oils. I believe they are similar to sewing machine oils.

Been doing detailed cleaning and will do more before I begin the reassembly.

[nefaurora]

As suggested above, Don't take out the shaft, Just work around it, As for oils, Use Sewing machine oil, and use Castrol Brown Bearing Grease in a tub. It's great stuff. Edison's original grease was made with Graphite and Vaseline...and is messy as all heck. Modern bearing grease works better and does not break down, so use that instead. See the pic of the tub below that you should use. NEVER use 3-in-1 oil on a Phonograph as it is Paraffin based and will "Gum up the works"...literally...



)

Tony K.

Edison Collector/Restorer