Speaker cabinet refurb .

[brian2957]

OK chaps , the reason I'm asking for advice about this is because I haven't got a clue on how to go about this so I thought I would ask for advice on the forum . I've seen some outstanding refurb work which has been done by AOS members and would like to try this myself.
A couple of months ago I bought a very nice pair of MA R852 speakers at a bargain price from a member on here . I've decided that I'm going to be using these for the foreseeable future .
The cabinets of the 852s are OK , however I really think that the cabs would benefit from a little refurbishment . I'm looking for suggestions and advice from the experts on here .











I've tried to take the best photos I can and would welcome your suggestions on how to approach this . BTW the white discoloration isn't a trick of the light , it's actually there and I'm not sure what has caused it or how to deal with it.Thanks .

[struth]

Nice speakers Brian. Looks like they have been stored in a damp place at one time. cant be sure but it looks like blushing. if its lacquer or shellac then try using 0000 steel wool and linseed oil (ive got a big bottle of food grade stuff if you need any),rubbing with the grain. youll need to remove the drivers as front need done. if its too bad then you may have to completely remove the surface finish with a spirit like turps. you can buy restoration liquids from the likes of liberon etc.

[brian2957]

Thanks Grant . Do you rub down with the wire wool then apply the linseed oil or use the wire wool to apply the linseed oil ?

[struth]

apply the oil with the wool. if it not too bad then it should go away without having to remove the lot. try it on one of the sides or back first. got plenty of finishes here if you need any

if theyve been varnished the youl need to remove that as the oil wont work

[struth]

id be tempted to strip it all and refinish tbh. do a proper job

[karma67]

A word of caution,if your using oil,soak the rags in water before throwing in the bin.

[brian2957]

id be tempted to strip it all and refinish tbh. do a proper job

That's the road I was thinking of going down Grant as I think they may be very nice if done properly . Any tips on how to go about this ?

[brian2957]

A word of caution,if your using oil,soak the rags in water before throwing in the bin.

Thanks Jamie , I'm very wary of oily stuff like this .

[struth]

use a spirit base to get the old finish off Brian then repair any imperfections. give a good sand down with some wet n dry or rougher wire wool..id use rougher wire wool with the spirit by the way.and wipe down with a damp sponge then dry one. once happy u have the choice of finish. danish oil ..liberon oil. youll need many coats of those. my favourite is a sealing shellac followed by 2 coats of good wax. if any staining needs done then that can be incorporated. i often use waxes with stain in as it gives a nice finish without any over blown areas.but if you have a good finish after shellac then clear wax will do. got plenty stuff here if it will save you money as you dont really need much and if its a one of job it can be costly mate

take your time and go with the grain at all times. it a very satisfying job and soothing if you want it to be..enjoy it

[brian2957]

Thanks Grant . If it's OK I may bring them over to yours for your opinion on a plan of action . You have PM mate .