[RodB]

So now that you've learned all there is to know about paper caps, it appears no one answered the question regarding the power switch. Here's what I would do. Since the switch is not even intermittent, something is shorting it or the spring mechanism is so dirty it can't do it's thing. Spray some solvent, like WD40 or alcohol, into the switch. You'll have to look closely to find openings. Put an ohmmeter on the switch contacts and work the switch 100, times. If it hasn't changed then do it again and leave it sit for a while. Try again. When the switch works properly, wash it out with electronic cleaner or alcohol, let it dry then I use Deoxit D5.

And remember, those paper caps are made of paper, 85 - 90 years old. Have you seen what a 90 year old newspaper looks like?