[Collins] Radio Tips

[JAMES T BRANNIGAN]

There seem to be a lot of fellows acquiring tube radios who are unfamiliar
with the technology.
This outline might save some grief and damage to the radio and/or operator.

There is a great temptation to unpack a radio, plug it in and start to
play...resist the temptation.....

1)  Get a manual.  READ the manual.  Familiarize yourself with the controls,
tuning, theory of operation.  Look over the schematic. If it is Greek to
you, find a 60's-70's Handbook and read the tube theory and circuit
descriptions.
2)  Carefully inspect the new radio.  Look for shipping damage and obvious
electrical/mechanical problems. (burn marks, charred components, bent
shafts, etc.)  Check for correct fuse sizes.
3)  Don't assume a CCA 10 is a 10 electrically.  These are old radios that
have been through many hands.  Ground the chassis..........keep one hand in
your pocket.
Plug the radio into a Variac and bring the voltage up slowly.  Look, listen
and smell for problems.
If you don't have a Variac, a 50-75W light bulb in series with the AC line
will limit the input voltage.
Check all the socket voltages and see if they are within spec.
4)  Plug the radio into a dummy load and check it on all bands, modes.
5)  Half of doing a good job is having the right tools.  50W Soldering iron,
hand tools, VOM or VTVM.  The Handbook has a list of suggested tools for
radio servicing.

Good luck and enjoy your new radio
Jim