Motorola 3-Channel Saved From Dump!

[Nolan Woodbury]

Two things jumped out about your post Bruce. One, I'm totally into 60s consoles and two, saving something like a quality old stereo from the dumpster is admirable. Kinda' makes it yours forever, you know? Everyone knows that strays are the most faithful...

As for that missing lid, you're fortunate to have the hinge; you're halfway there. I assume it mounts flush on the top, and if that's the case you'll need to source a nice piece of hardwood, like oak or maple. Radio-cabinet makers used quality hardwoods like this for high-stress areas like lids and corner trim for durability. Screw holes were drilled and (just slightly) larger screws run inside with a dab of glue, making them hellish strong. Kind of makes you wonder what freak of nature was abusive enough to tear something like that off?

After it is recapped and otherwise sorted, I’d take it to a trustworthy cabinet shop. You might be able to get the lid cut and attached, but you'll need a professional to match the stain, which I assume is either cherry or mahogany. They might also be convinced to router a finger-hold if the lid doesn't use hardware or a pull to open and close. Most of the guys in the biz I know are more than happy to help on special projects like this, and like it or not the condition of the cabinet is vital to the set's future.

No info on my files tho...sorry. Motorola was a very popular maker; I'm sure someone around here has the schematic and specs.

Good luck Bruce, you done good! Keep us posted-

Looking forward to seeing the pics.