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Post by davidbloomfield on Oct 2, 2023 15:35:46 GMT 12
Hello I’m a new member. I’ve just recently fallen in the rabbit hole known as valve radio restoration. I must admit I’m having a ball. I have no idea what I’m doing but have had some practice at learning and using my hands. I’m new (ishly) retired so have some time to take on new interests. I learning the principles of electronics in relation to valve radios, abate slowly. My training is in chemistry but have basic physics so not too much of a stretch. I love woodwork, steam engines ( which I build in my workshop), and now electronics. I’ve been at this for a couple of months so don’t know much but have amassed some equipment including assorted dvms, cap meters, esr meter, cap leakage tester, signal generator, oscilloscope (they are seriously cool) even though not really required. I’ve also acquired an Eico valve tester, a heathkit V7au to do restore, as well as some radios. I’m practicing on a La Gloria radiogram 3G. I have about 5 other radios to have a go at. I’ve just acquired a radiogram from the early 30s which I would love some help identifying. At best Imcan tell it’s a version of HMVs Superhet Lowboy Seven 470. Photos attached.
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Post by pentode on Oct 3, 2023 14:25:40 GMT 12
Wow, thats a wonderful collection of gear for any restorer. And a great restoration of what seems to be a high-end, 6-valve set. I'm sure there a lot of experienced members on this site to give advice so dont hesitate to ask. For a beginner, I would suggest you look up the characteristics of each of the valves to be familiar with not only their base connections, but also their operating parameters. Guess you know a few basic rules, eg dont turn it on without some basic repairs to some sections, such as the power supply. When you do switch on, use the 60-watt incandescent bulb load in case of catastrophic shorts. Lots of good videos on these techniques. Good luck.
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Post by davidbloomfield on Oct 3, 2023 15:37:45 GMT 12
Thanks for the advice pentode. I’m sure you’ll hear from me as I bumble along. Yep I built myself a dim bulb test rig, got an isolation transformer and a variac. My wife thought the dim bulb tester was for testing me!
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