Clint, Welcome to the group. I am relatively new to this myself. There are some very experienced and very helpful people who frequent this list. The best advice that I have received so far is to get some books written by people who have years of experience with these fine old machines.
I would suggest that you start with a copy of "The compleat Talking Machine". In this book it suggests that you use Naptha to clean the gears and moving parts. I will defer to the experts on what is best to use on the finished surfaces. I would be careful and work slowly. Whatever you use, it should be a gentle, non-abrasive method. Perhaps some others can offer some advice in that area? Best of luck with your collecting and restorations! Tom Jordan ----- Original Message ----- From: cspaar at prexar.com To: Phono-l at oldcrank.com Sent: Monday, August 18, 2003 8:08 PM Subject: [Phono-L] Hello ..I'm a Newbie to the list .... Hi all, I'm a newbie to this list ... and a novice collector of vintage phonographs... Actually my interest in oldtime phonographs started in 1974 My interest currently is primarily Edison cylinder machines ... and I have a few that are working, and a couple that need restoration. My goal in restoration is to clean up, and rebuild so the machine runs & plays properly. First couple questions I have: .... any reccomendations on cleaning bedplates ... trying to remove old dust & oils, but not harm any existing gold trim etc. 2nd... cleaning old parts, gears etc...is a parts washer neccessary ... what cleaning agents are reccomended? Thanks for having me aboard, Clint _______________________________________________ Phono-l mailing list Phono-l at oldcrank.com http://oldcrank.com/mailman/listinfo/phono-l_oldcrank.com
