07-20-2008, 03:12 AM
Just my .02, but I have found that the old mechanical-type vibrators are worthless at best, and not dependable at all. I have had to take the old mechanical vibrators apart, clean the points, and then find they still arent dependable unless you give them a good "slap" to wake up.
The good news is, new type solid-state vibrator replacements are now avail from several sources. I buy the new solid-state replacement 6v vibrators from: <!-- w --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.radiodaze.com">www.radiodaze.com</a><!-- w --> . They have a very good selection for any type application (neg or pos ground types). As far as "alignment" of your stations on a already recapped set, check to make sure the alignment was done properly using a good trustworthy accurate RF generator to "peak" the IF sections. If all that checks OK, then check point-to-point contacts on all the push button tuning (mechanicals). WD40 works well as many other high-dollar electronics contact cleaners. Weak,..( but still working) pentagrid-converter tubes can sometimes also cause wierd-issues in any vintage tube radio. ( get a schematic if possible) ,... try for a free one at: <!-- w --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.nostalgiaair.org">www.nostalgiaair.org</a><!-- w --> , ... then double check previous electronic restoration very closely!! If you have some "spare tubes",.. you can try subbing them (one-by-one)into the circuit starting at the front-end. Your getting audio, so the amplifier section is working? Seems your not far away from total perfection if a orig coil isnt open? Also, make sure you have a good antenna connection. A simple 4' piece of wire connected to a small screwdriver inserted into the ant connect should be enough to receive local stations (daytime). Also, follow all BILLs recomendations! He knows lots more about vintage auto-type radios than I ever will! He is is the PRO indeed!! Im just tryin to help out if I can!! Best of luck on your radio restoration!! Im still learning also, for over 35 yrs!! Nothing surprises me anymores working on these old sets!!
The good news is, new type solid-state vibrator replacements are now avail from several sources. I buy the new solid-state replacement 6v vibrators from: <!-- w --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.radiodaze.com">www.radiodaze.com</a><!-- w --> . They have a very good selection for any type application (neg or pos ground types). As far as "alignment" of your stations on a already recapped set, check to make sure the alignment was done properly using a good trustworthy accurate RF generator to "peak" the IF sections. If all that checks OK, then check point-to-point contacts on all the push button tuning (mechanicals). WD40 works well as many other high-dollar electronics contact cleaners. Weak,..( but still working) pentagrid-converter tubes can sometimes also cause wierd-issues in any vintage tube radio. ( get a schematic if possible) ,... try for a free one at: <!-- w --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.nostalgiaair.org">www.nostalgiaair.org</a><!-- w --> , ... then double check previous electronic restoration very closely!! If you have some "spare tubes",.. you can try subbing them (one-by-one)into the circuit starting at the front-end. Your getting audio, so the amplifier section is working? Seems your not far away from total perfection if a orig coil isnt open? Also, make sure you have a good antenna connection. A simple 4' piece of wire connected to a small screwdriver inserted into the ant connect should be enough to receive local stations (daytime). Also, follow all BILLs recomendations! He knows lots more about vintage auto-type radios than I ever will! He is is the PRO indeed!! Im just tryin to help out if I can!! Best of luck on your radio restoration!! Im still learning also, for over 35 yrs!! Nothing surprises me anymores working on these old sets!!
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