So basically I need to convert the older capacitor values to newer values and replace these paper-wax capacitors?
T23
:blink:
Yes!
I got a Heathkit DX40, and powered it up like a moron without checking anything. After ~1 minute of me tuning it into a dummy load, the 6146 final decided to go out.
I went through it, and discovered quite a few of the caps were well out of tolerance. Two of the main power supply caps were bouncing in the range of 300v - 500v, even though they're supposed to be 400v caps.
I replaced them with modern electrolytics, and now they're both solid at ~402v. She purrs beautifully on CW, although I still need to do some work on the MIC side of the circuit.
It's safe to say, if there's a paper capacitor in there, it probably needs to be replaced. Wire-wound resistors MAY be finicky too, but that's far less likely. Also check for bad solder joints.
You can go two ways
1.) Damn authenticity, and just solder in a modern equivalent
2.) De-core the paper capacitor, and put your modern caps inside it. Then reassemble the paper cap, and it looks original.
Good luck with your project. :laugh: