I have just purchased an Astor Tablegram. I can't seem to find a model anywhere on it, but the old lady I bought it from said it was a 1955 model. It is made of brown bakelite and has a radio panel on the front.

When the unit is turned on, the radio works well, and the turntable spins at the same time. Is this normal? There is a knob on the left side of the unit that doesn't seem to be doing very much. Does this change the function from radio to turntable? Also, the needle doesn't seem to drop down onto the record - almost like it needs more weight.

I need some assistance in having some repairs done in Melbourne, and also locating a missing part.

Can anyone help me with any info? Thanks...

No it's not normal, probably the turntable is all gunked up preventing it from turning off. Is there a model eg AQR-FQR-HQR.
If you take the top off the turntable, are you able the turn that aluminum cam on the RHS? If not remove it - clean and relubricate.
Regards
Rudy

Ev74Aus,

This website has a Services Directory which is linked from the main links bar at the top of the page. As you are in Melbourne you should be in luck with repairmen and spare parts as Melbourne is more or less the vintage radio epicentre in Australia.

Just follow the Service Directory link and choose your state and the page will display the contact details of people and businesses closest to you.

Hi Rude & Brad, thanks so much for your replies and assistance.

Rudy, I can't find a model number anywhere. There is a sticker on the upper rear left hand side of the unit which has faded so badly, I can only make out 2 or 3 words. Apart from that, I cannot find any other markings on the unit itself. Is there somewhere online I can see a model listing with some photographs perhaps - to try to match it with the model I have bought? I have searched endlessly and can't seem to find anywhere. I think the button on the left side of the unit must control it, because it isn't doing anything when I turn it. I'll try what you suggested and see how I go. Thanks.

Brad, thanks also for your assistance. I might try a few places tomorrow and see if they can help. Resurrection Radio is right around the corner from me, so I may try them first.

Thanks once again guys.