[Jeremy]

Hello, I am new to the phorum and new to old radios. I collect antique clocks, mostly. I just got a Philco model 630 at a local flea market. It is unrestored and in working condition. I have two questions, to start: is there a safe way to clean the dial without removing the markings? And, is the ground terminal on the chassis used to improve reception or is it a safety feature? My initial reading is that the later "American 5-tube" radios did not have transformers and the metal chassis were therefore part of the electrical circuit. But this Philco appears to have a transformer, and, with no back on the cabinet, can I assume that the chassis is not supposed to be electrically live?

I have posted a picture, and will post more later with questions about the finish (the front panel is excellent and just needs to be cleaned).