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I am referred by John Tuttle to this group for possible assistance.
My problem concerns a Deleika hand-cranked (paper rolls) barrel organ
that we purchased new when we visited Germany in 1989.  The bellows
or some other related device appears to have sprung a leak in the
pneumatic system but we cannot find a way to gain access to accomplish
a patch or repair.

I have examined this box from all sides and can't figure out how to
open it up without damaging something.  I am hoping that there is
someone out there who can provide some simplified instructions for me
to do that (and perhaps what to look for afterwards) or, failing that,
can refer me to a reasonably priced repair service that is within easy
driving distance from Northeastern Ohio where I reside.

Thus far, I can remove the bottom plate to expose the lower register
of pipes, which appear to be glued and/or screwed onto a second wooden
plate that remains firmly in place after removing all accessible screws
around the perimeter (there are two partially covered under one end of
the pipes).  On opening the reel and platen compartment, there appear
to be several screws holding this compartment in place, plus several
practically in-accessible couplings joining cranks, etc. to mechanical
drive wheel, reciprocating wooden arm (to the bellows?), etc.  These
latter [couplings] appear to require disconnection if access is to be
gained via this direction.

The fixed part of the lift-up lid partially covers the reel compartment
edge and is glued to the sides of the box, so even if the compartment
could be loosened/disconnected, I question whether the compartment
could be lifted out.  The front bezel with velvet side panels seems
to "float" loose, but is attached to offset wooden blocks, screwed or
glued to it, and which prevent its removal to access the interior.
What am I missing?  Help, please!

I would greatly appreciate any reference you could supply to a set of
directions for <opening the box> without damaging it; failing that,
perhaps you could direct me to a repair service that is priced
reasonably and is close by to our location.  We live in Northeast Ohio
(Tallmadge, Ohio).  Thanks in advance for any assistance you may be
able to provide.

Derry Fishel
Tallmadge, Ohio
dlfishel@neo.rr.com.geentroep [delete ".geentroep" to reply]