Philco Compella 604 Stereo 1960-62 tube

[F-STOP]

Just getting into SWL and just remembered that I had this in my barn. Looks clean, have not plugged it in yet. Anyone know if it is a good AM/FM/SW radio for listening?

 

[Robb]

Try it out.
If it has a problem, chances are the electrolytic caps are/have dried out. Just replace them.

 

[F-STOP]

Sounds like you have done this before. Not sure what a electrolytic cap looks like, should be easy to figure this out. I have worked on military and AT&T towers. Tubes in the 60's and watched all the changes over the last 50 years. My first step will be to get the chassis out of the case and do a visual and dust off with some spray and air. Then I will plug it in. I will take some pics and post them.

 

[Robb]

I've fixed a radio or three; yes.
Its just common knowledge that electrolytic caps are the first to go; always has been and will be.
Fluid electrolyte inside dries out over time - is all.

 

[F-STOP]

When I get the chassis out and cleaned I'll be in touch.

 

[StrangeBrew]

Any thoughts on the practice of bringing an old radio that hasn't been used in a while up to voltage slowly with a variac? I've seen this recommended to prevent caps from going.

 

[F-STOP]

I am not aware of that, using a variac. Hopefully somebody will jump in and add to it. I know lately with this Maine weather and low temps it takes me awhile to get up to running power.

 

[space cowboy]

https://www.radiolaguy.com/info/Dont-Do.htm

https://antiqueradio.org/dimbulb.htm

http://www.justradios.com/captips.html

 

[F-STOP]

Thank you, good advice, I will definitely read these URL's