[Boatanchors] Chippewa and Front Panel

[Paul Monroe]

Hi all,

I have been fortunate to get a Heathkit Chippewa KL1 amplifier in reasonably
good condition. The cabinet paint is blistered and will have to be redone,
but that isn't a problem.

The interior is very clean and I have not been able to see any evidence of
fried components.

The front panel is another story. The previous owner was a heavy smoker and
the panel is covered with nicotine grime. It is so bad that the band switch
legends for 20M and 15M can't be read and a permanent marker has been used
to indicate these bands. However, now that the rig is in my shop where there
is good light, the original legends are still there, well protected under a
coat of grime.

Any suggestions as to a safe means of cleaning this stuff off?

Also, the plate current meter is not recessed or insulated. The instruction
manual states that this meter is specially constructed to withstand the high
plate voltages used in this amplifier. Any thoughts on this matter. Is the
meter safe as stated, or should I make a removable plastic shield to protect
against accidental contact?

Any suggestions or comments will be most appreciated.

73,

Paul Monreo, W9MEH