Hi Rick,
>I plan on transplanting the chassis and speaker of a Philco '36 116X into a 116B cabinet.
You'll need to construct some sort of cross brace to support the speaker from the back. The spkr in to B is much lighted that the one in the X. I think it's bigger too B being 10 1/2" and the X being 14" I wouldn't try to mount the X spkr to the front panel, it would quite a strain.
>Would the flaking wood require new veneer? What would be necessary to restore the cabinet exterior?
Not sure what you are asking. What do you mean by "flaking wood"? If the finish is flaking you'll need to refinish it which involves removing the old, spraying w/sanding sealer, grain filling, toning, and a top coat.
I have both 116X and a late model (8" spkr) 116B. Great players!!
If you like you can read a little bit abt the cabinet here:
http://philcoradio.com/phorum/showthread.php?tid=19320
My friend Bob is working on an early 116B (like your cabinet). It was painted w/white house paint.
http://philcoradio.com/phorum/showthread.php?tid=19242
I think both of us have been taking a break over the holidays. I'm down the the cabinet work/refinishing with the chassis being done. Bob has been working on both.
GL
Terry