How we do it (the technical bit!)

We always source complete jukeboxes and avoid damaged or rotted cabinet machines as they will never make a good restoration. Classics are often imported directly from the USA; Custom jukes can often be found in the UK.

All restorations are completed using the highest levels of quality control and attention to detail.

• Full assessment: Thorough inspection for any major mechanical or structural problems. Any unserviceable items are replaced with either good second hand or reproduction parts.

• Strip down: The ‘bright work’ is removed from the cabinet then polished and replated where required. Glass is removed and polished if required. Casters are discarded as they will be replaced with new heavy duty rubber versions.

• Cleaning: The cabinet is washed/degreased and prepared for painting or for new veneer to be fitted. Any cabinet damage is them repaired.

• Record changer mechanism 1st stage: Removed, washed/degreased and inspected. Any parts missing or unserviceable are sourced. It is then dismantled into its component parts ready for each item to be individually serviced.

• Motors: Stripped and cleaned. For DC motors the brushes are inspected/ replaced, the commutator undercut and armature windings resistance measured. The bearings are checked and replaced if required.

• Turntable Motors: Stripped and cleaned. Run-up and turntable speed checked for 45 r.p.m. with only a 2% variation allowed. Wow and flutter is accessed audibly.

• Micro switches: Replaced or, if no longer available, dismantled and cleaned.

• Blade switches: Refaced, cleaned and reset

• Tone arms: Inspected, especially pivot points for smooth operation.

• Cartridge/styli: Replaced only with Stanton (magnetic) or Pfanstiehl (ceramic) to guarantee replacement styli availability and minimum record wear. New screened signal wires are attached as original cable hardens causing stylus skip.

• Rubber components: Replaced where possible: These include motor mounts, grommets etc which have usually hardened or perished.

• Record changer mechanism 2nd stage: Carefully reassembled, referencing the original factory manuals to ensure correct alignment and tolerances for long term reliable operation.

• Electrical system: Benefits from a comprehensive overhaul: Wring looms will be cleaned and terminations inspected/checked. Relays replaced/serviced, each connector cleaned and every contact inspected

• Transformer: For imported jukeboxes (especially from the USA), a Class 2 isolating – not an auto – transformer is fitted for safe operation on the UK 240 volt mains system (or correct voltage for overseas deliveries). The transformer is always to a primary fuse for additional safety and protection.

• Mains wiring: A new mains plug and mains cable are fitted. The internal mains wiring is inspected and replaced if required. Plugs, light sockets, fuse carriers etc. are all cleaned or replaced.

• Fuses: Every fuse in the machine is replaced with the correct type and rating specified by the manufacturer. This ensures safe and reliable operation.

• Sound system: Sound is equally important as the look of a jukebox and we aim to match or better the original factory quality. Each component in the system is checked/repaired/replaced and when complete a full listening test is carried out.

• Valve amplifiers: The amplifier chassis is first washed, switches/sockets cleaned and volume controls normally replaced. All electrolytic and signal path capacitors renewed, noisy or out of tolerance resistors replaced, valve bases cleaned and pin tightness checked, valves tested and replaced if faulty. Output transformers rewound when required. Testing involves checking power, distortion, frequency response using an Audio Precision analyser. After passing a listening test it is run in the jukebox for a minimum of 10 hours.

• Crossovers: Capacitor replaced on older machines, resistors and chokes checked/replaced.

• Loudspeakers: Tested and if OK used or either re-coned/replaced depending on type and age. Tweeters added when sound enhancement required.

Mp3 technology: If requested by the customer, an mp3/CD input is fitted. This will be concealed at the back of the jukebox and lets you play your favourite music files through the jukebox. Any device with a small headphone output socket (tablets, phones, etc) can be used. The jukebox will be supplied with a suitable connecting cable.

• Final assembly: The record changer is reunited with the finished cabinet along with wiring looms, power supplies, credit units etc. The glass, trim and badges are all fitted

• Fluorescent tubes: Fluorescent tubes, starters, lamps all replaced. Fluorescent ballasts replaced on pre 70s machines.

• Singles: We load up your jukebox with a full set of records or you can supply your own set which we will clean, fit and type out the title strips so you are ready to plug in and play

• Function testing: Every disc is played at least twice to ensure there are no faults or alignment problems

• Most jukeboxes are supplied with working coin mechanisms although delivered set to ‘free play’

• Included with the jukebox is title strip software, an audio lead for the mp3 input (where fitted) and an Owners Guide.

• Your jukebox is now ready for delivery!

Don‘t forget we’re just a phone call away: +44 (0)7763 719646
or email us at info@yourjukebox.co.uk