[SteveG]

I have a lead on a clean 41-295 console. The cord is cut, but the cabinet looks to have a nice original finish. I'm not electronically inclined, so I would have to have someone do the chassis. Can I get a little help with some pros and cons about this model? Price might be $75. I'm guessing the chassis work would be a killer...

[Ron Ramirez]

Cons: Rubber-covered wiring, and lots of it. It will all need to be replaced if you want a safe, reliable radio.

Pros: An excellent performer with great sound once properly restored. This one is worth the effort if you have room for a large console.

[SteveG]

Ron,
Thanks. I'm thinking that since I wouldn't be the one restoring the chassis, that might turn into a money pit. What years did Philco use the rubber coated wiring? I think earlier radios might be better to pursue. This one is undoubtedly a high end model for that year, but I seem to like the earlier more Deco style radios. I have a real nice original late tombstone 16B that has had the chassis gone thru and a '36 650MX that's restored that are some of my favorites and I've had them for about 20 years. The fact that I don't do my own electronics is a killer!
Steve

[vecher]

Steve, I just restored a 42-1012 that had I lot of Rubber-covered wiring. Not a easy job.. It was my first one that I had to replace ALL of the wiring. On the bright side after replacing the wiring it should work great..

Good luck in getting someone to replace all that for you.. Its not a easy or quick job..

Skip...

[Radioroslyn]

1938-42 US sets

Terry

[SteveG]

Thanks Skip and Terry. For the sake of not wanting to get buried in a particular set, I think I'll "try" and confine my searching to the earlier than '38 sets. The chassis resto on my 39-17 was a bit expensive recently, due to all that rubber wiring. Luckily I got the radio very reasonably. Still, I'm into it more than it's worth. Good thing I'm in the hobby to enjoy it and not make money!!

I like the style of 37-116 consoles. Are they cloth braided wiring, not rubber?
Steve

[Ron Ramirez]

Yes, the 37-116 has cloth-covered wiring. But that can also get dried out and once it does, the insulation is easily broken. But the insulation does not crumble and fall off of its own accord as does the rubber insulation on 1939-42 Philcos. The trick with the 1938 and older Philcos is to avoid bothering the wires if at all possible.

You're right, if you have others do your electronic work for you, a 1939-42 Philco will quickly become a money pit.