[Hallicrafters] Old Transformers

[Duane Fischer, W8DBF]

Hi Larry,

Bill Halligan bought his transformers from the leading suppliers, or so the 
tale is told. No matter how good a transformer was built, maintained and 
treated by the owner, the effects of entropy eventually take their toll.

Materials break down, parts corrode, insulation no longer insulates etc. 
They all fail.

Additionally Larry, the normal line voltage back then was more or less 110 
volts. Nowadays that voltage is typically more then 120 volts. The higher 
line voltage puts a greater strain on the transformer, or other components, 
and speeds up component breakdown.

I think it says something about quality in the past, however. Look how many 
of those sixty to eighty year old rigs are still operating with only minor 
repairs! A tube replacement, failed resistor or leaking electrolytic! All 
par for the course. Now they may not be working up to original 
specifications, but then again, how many of us over sixty are either! 
(LOL!)

The good news Larry, is that most parts can be found with some searching and 
patience.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Larry Young" <larry112249 at mindspring.com>
To: <hallicrafters at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Sunday, June 17, 2012 11:17 PM
Subject: [Hallicrafters] Old Transformers


> What is the likelihood of an original 1937 and 1940s transformer 
> developing
> a fault? I was talking with some folk at the Burbank, CA SCARS swap meet 
> and
> they seem to think it was an eventuality.
>
>
>
> Larry Young
>
> in Ventura, CA
>
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