[AMRadio] Old Iron

[David Knepper]

The loss of the low voltage transformer can be traced to leaky bypass caps 
on the screen of the 4D32.  Also reducing the line voltage helps 
considerably.  That little transformer as Todd points out is the weak link 
in the 32V.  If it is warm to the touch, it is only a matter of time when it 
fails.  I have been lucky so far in three of my 32V unit but one never 
knows.  Some folks will reduce the strain on the transformer by using 
solid-state rectifiers and lifting out the 807 modulator tubes if they are 
using the transmitter on CW.

There was an article on this subject in an earlier Collins Journal.

Replacing the low voltage transformer with a new one can cost you big bucks, 
unfortunately.

But, Gary can do the job for you.

David Knepper, W3CRA/W3ST
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----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Todd, KA1KAQ" <ka1kaq at gmail.com>
To: "Discussion of AM Radio in the Amateur Service" 
<amradio at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Friday, February 03, 2012 12:25 AM
Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Old Iron


> On Thu, Feb 2, 2012 at 9:56 PM,  <Ka9p at aol.com> wrote:
>
>> And is there any process you go through under these circumstances to
>> condition the hardware before you start to test it under load?
>
> Covered well by other folks. As Kim said, knowing whether they were
> just stored in an unheated storage area or actually wet matters a bit.
> Barring any visible corrosion problems with the windings, a nice, slow
> bake should dry things out well. Be patient.
>
> One thing to keep in mind is that the 32V series is notorious for
> losing its LV transformer. A lot going on with that one piece of iron,
> and a blazng hot 5Z4 rectifier half an inch away. Don't be surprised
> if it's toast or zorches early on. The good news is, Gary WZ1M can
> rewind it for you so you won't have any more problems.
>
> Good luck with it. Just spoke with a fellow in NY a few nights back
> who was successful in reviving a similar example.
>
> ~ Todd,  KA1KAQ/4
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