[DonS]

Finally completed the restoration of this lovely radio. All caps and out-of-tolerance resistors were replaced. The cabinet was stripped and refinished using toning lacquer and spray-on clear lacquer for the top-coat. New decals were applied and the dial escutcheon was sprayed to restore the original color. The rotten pushbuttons were replaced with new replacements. This was my first cabinet restoration and I did make a few mistakes, but overall, I am quite pleased with the results. Thanks to all who responded to my queries re: the cabinet restoration...without your help I'd have been totally lost!
I have enclosed some before and after pictures. Enjoy!

Don

Cabinet before restoration

[Image: http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg139...NY0068.jpg]

Cabinet after restoration

[Image: http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg139...G_0003.jpg]

Before (close-up)

[Image: http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg139...NY0069.jpg]

After (close-up)

[Image: http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg139...G_0005.jpg]

Another After (close-up) (didn't see the dust until after the picture!)

[Image: http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg139...G_1298.jpg]

[exray]

Kudos, Don. Ya got a very nice looking radio now.

-Bill

[BDM]

Very nice How does she play?

[DonS]

Thanks, guys! she plays great!

Don

[DeckApe]

Don,

Thanks for posting the photos of your efforts. It looks beautiful!

I just got a 40-190 from the in-laws (they ran out of room and so I got it pre-demise instead of as originally planned) and your lovely close-ups (with the same chassis as your 40-180) answered my questions as to which sheet of decals I need.

[Michael Dennis]

Beautiful, my boy, just BEAUTIFUL!!! I hope my first turns out half that nice.
She looks 1st. rate!

Mike

[Ron Ramirez]

Yes indeed...great job, Don!

[englishradioman]

Excellent work! I've restored several in my time, other companies', but this is so good!

[DeckApe]

DonS, I'm slowly gearing up to work on a 40-190 with the identical chassis. I've only seen a few of them about, of course... I'm trying to find out if I'm supposed to have any tube shields. Does your set have any?

[DonS]

I don't recall seeing any tube shields on my 40-180...but I'll take a look again when I go home after work.

Don

[DeckApe]

Don--no worries! I've been looking around (particularly Our Favorite Auction Site) and I can't find a 180, 185 or 190 with tube shields. I don't think we're required to have them.

I am positively itching to tear into my chassis, but... patience. And finish up some other projects first, so I have room to move in the garage, yes?