[R-390] Capacitors

[Byron Tatum]

Hello-
    Regarding the R-390A capacitor thread I will throw in this observation :
            On an older IF module { Collins built } the type of capacitors were the large tubular ones that appeared black, as best I remember, with color-coding rings around them.They appeared as if they were made in two halves, with a seam running between top and bottom halves. I recall finding one of them, mounted over against the side wall, in the area of the BFO / detector, that was separating at the seams. It was very noticable. Anyway, the day I bought this IF deck { at a swap meet, by itself} a good friend of mine was looking it over and commented about this type of capacitor. I thought he referred to it as a "Black Beauty". Anyway, he told me these type capacitors were notorious for problems { leakage} and one could actually have a tiny battery type effect in a circuit. { Dallas, this friend of mine purchased your modified 51J4 about 10 years back} I put stock in my friends advice as he has restored many, many older radios and would remove these type capacitors upon sight. Anyway, just a bit of information to chew on. Thanks, Byron, WA5THJ.