Hobbies And Interests
Clean Area
Before you begin disassembly, a clean well-lighted area is essential. Spread out a large white towel, and lay all the parts neatly down. The area must also be protected, since restoration may take some time. You don't want a cat or a curious child playing around with all the parts laid out.
Make a Video
Manuals for your particular models may be hard to find or nonexistent. Having a camcorder handy is almost a requirement. Instruct an assistant to record the mechanisms as you are taking them apart. Since assembly is in the reverse order of disassembly, you can refer back to the recording when it comes time to reassemble.
Small Sealed Containers
Keep a variety of small sealed containers on hand. Many parts are small and easily lost. By keeping the parts in containers, you can divide up the parts into subassemblies and label the containers as such. For example, one container may be labeled "drive mechanism" while another may be labeled "sound box parts."
Machine Shop Assistance
The assistance of a good machine shop may be required. If a part is rusted or damaged beyond repair, a machine shop may have to make the part. Look around for an independent machinist who owns a small shop, rather than a large shop. A small machine shop will take the time to work with you and make a new part based upon the old part you take in to him. A large shop make be interested only in large production runs.
Silvertone Recommendations
The original owner's manual warns not to wind the spring too tightly. Another recommendation is to oil the mechanism lightly, never letting it grind or squeak. Still another suggestion is to apply a thin film of light lubricating grease to the handle before inserting it into the winding hole.