[Hallicrafters] Hallicrafters S53 A IF transformers and parts

[John King]

I just acquired a very nice looking S 53 A receiver that makes noise similar to the static type noise that the All American Five BC radios made when the IF transformers needed changing back in the 1960s. I also suspect a dirty/defective  sensitivity and/or audio gain control. Volume is very low but there is no AC hum. I

Believe it or not, this is the first S 53A I have ever laid my eyes on in the 55 years I have been licensed. Back in the late 50s, I drooled a lot over them in the Allied catalog but never got one.  

It has only one spot about the size of a pencil eraser that needs touch up and hardly any scratches. I bought it just to fill a hole in my Hallicrafters accumulation.

Will order a manual and look under the hood. I have no way of determining the year of manufacture as there is no serial number. I just know the span of years during which they were built.

Would be interested  in hearing from those who have worked on them and restored them as well as used  them  and to get advice and tips. Thanks and 73, John, K5PGW