New seal for the Sunbeam C-30A vacuum coffee maker?

by Mary
(Harlan, Kansas, USA)

QUESTION:

We just purchased a C-30A at auction -- the rubber seal was so hard that it broke. Any ideas on how we can repair? Also, what is the best way to take care of the rubber seal if we get it replaced?

Thanks!

ANSWER:

We have never tried the Sunbeam C-30A, but by all accounts it's a wonderful machine and represented quite a breakthrough back in the forties.

There are quite a few of these still around, which is a testament to the quality of construction.

However, the two commonest problems are with the rubber seal and the power cord (which has rubber insulation). The old, vulcanized rubber grows brittle over time and cracks.

Our advice would be to take the brewer and old seal to an appliance repair store and see if they can cut you a new one. Modern seal materials don't have that same cracking problem.

BTW – The Sunbeam C-30A originally came with a tray set included. If you don't have one, keep your eyes open at flea markets and eBay – and you might get lucky.

Great question – and good luck with the brewer!