[Hallicrafters] SX-42 Power Transformer

[Chuck McGregor]

While exploring a newly acquired SX-42, I've discovered a mystery at the 
power transformer.  The rectangular top end bell, with the Hallicrafters 
logo stamped on it, is a dummy.  Underneath it is a "normal" contoured end 
bell.  I'm wondering why??  Did earlier production use a potted transformer 
with rectangular shape - so that the fake end bell covers up a production 
change ?  The way it is attached provides minimal heat transfer, so this 
fake end bell will probably cause the transformer to run warmer than 
without it.  Perhaps the design folks who came up with the front panel 
design and the weird clutching scheme on the tuning knob just think that 
boxy transformers looked prettier ??

Does anyone know the history of this one ?

Thanks

Chuck  N7RHU