[Hallicrafters] Varacs

[Craig Roberts]

Roy's right.  With a Variac, the HT-37 could "cook" all right.  New 
electrolytics are a lot easier to find and pay for than a new power 
transformer.  While some errant electrolytics can be successfully 
"reformed", many -- especially if they're as old as the HT-37's -- are 
too dried out to salvage. Hallicrafters, after all, did not use 
expensive, military grade components in their ham line.

The only advantage a Variac would give you (after you've replaced the 
electrolytics!)  is to lower the line voltage if yours is above 117- 
120V -- and there's some debate about whether that's necessary, anyway.  
Besides, it's way too easy to accidentally bump a Variac up to a 
damage-prone overvoltage unless you provide some sort of mechanical 
positive stop on the dial.

73 and have fun with your new transmitter!

Craig
W3CRR