Tech Section: Dial Cord Replacement for Early Philcos made between 1930 and 1935

The dial cord used in older Philco sets was large in diameter and is no longer being sold. This presents a problem to the restorer of today who wants to get his or her dial drive to work but can only find thin diameter dial cord.

This fix applies to the following Philco models:

1930: 30, 41, 77, 96, 296, Concert Grand

1931: 111, 112, 211, 212

1932: 15, 22, 23, 43, 47, 71, 91

1933-34: 14, 17, 18, 19, 89, 503

1935: 16 (Codes 125-126-127), 18, 28, 29, 32, 45, 49, 89, 97, 144 (with dual concentric tuning knobs), 200, 201, 506, 507, 509

A cord which is large in diameter is needed in order to make the dial drive mechanism of these Philcos work properly.

I found a quick and inexpensive solution at my local Wal-Mart store: J. & P. Coats Crochet Nylon.

This cord is strong, does not stretch, and is nearly the same diameter as the original dial cord used on the Philco sets listed above. It is available in different colors; I chose black in order to have the authentic look of dial cord. Try it...it works!

If you encounter any problems with slipping of the cord, coat the cord with violin rosin. Violin rosin is made in a block, built into a wooden holder, and is sold at music stores. Simply drag the cord across the rosin block until it is well coated, then install the cord on the dial drive assembly of the radio.

Clifford Berthelsen writes: "I too use that nylon cord for dial cord, but I cover it with Elmer's rubber cement and let it dry. It remains just slightly sticky and have used it where difficulty was encountered."

Another choice to replace old, heavy dial cord:

Another (and perhaps better) substitute for the early large diameter dial cord is braided, 200 lb. test fishing line. If you choose to use this, do not purchase monofilament line - it is made of plastic, and is unsuitable for use as a radio dial cord. Look for nylon braided line. You should be able to find this at stores which specialize in fishing equipment, or online.