Turntable cover refinishing and repair

[Deane1]

Hi. New here to audiokarma. Definitely a vintage audiophyle. My system includes a
Marantz 4270 Stereo Receiver
Thorens 145 Turntable
Technics Turntable. SL-1700 MK II
Teac A-300 3 head Cassette Deck
Teac GE-20 Graphic Equalizer
Magnavox cdb 650 CD player
Ohm Walsh II speakers
Orb satellite speakers

I recently acquired a couple vintage turntables including a Kenwood KD 1033, and a Pioneer PL 100. Both of these turntables had their original covers quite scratched and dinged up. I found that I was able to refinish them to like new condition, using a four-sided finger nail buffing pad from the local drug store. The four sides go from coarse to super fine. Like having your nails done, I started with the coarse and worked my way buffing the scratches out to the super fine side. I finished up by using the Novus plastic buffing and cleaning solutions. Although it took some time to do this, I was quite happy with the results and the turntables now look like new.

Just thought that there might be other audiokarma enthusiasts who would be interested.

 

[Freddymac2]

Depending on how bad things are 600 grit wet sanding paper is where I start and final sand with 1500 grit. It takes about 5 or six applications of a plastic polish to get it back to a clear like new cover. I will see if I can find what you used at the store. I am always looking for a better way.

 

[Deane1]

Depending on how bad things are 600 grit wet sanding paper is where I start and final sand with 1500 grit. It takes about 5 or six applications of a plastic polish to get it back to a clear like new cover. I will see if I can find what you used at the store. I am always looking for a better way.

 

[Deane1]

Yes, I have used wet sandpaper as well. Just like refinishing a paint on a car. These fingernail polishing pads can also be used with water however they disintegrate after a while. I also found that they did not fatigue my hand as much since they are foam padded, and it's not just my fingers pressing against the plastic.

Just a hint for those wanting to try this, start with the course side and buff at a 90 degree angle across any scratch that you want to get out. Buff out the deepest parts of the scratch, then change to a finer Grit and use a circular motion so that you even out the buffing process. Then keep moving to a finer Grit. At first it looks like you're scratching up the plastic even more because it becomes hazy, but as you progress to a finer grit and then use the Novus, all of that Haze will disappear.