[R-390] FS: Stewart Warner U S Navy R-390A

[Michael Crestohl]

   Hi Gang:
   Here is a nice R-390A restoration project with a documented history.
   It is a 1960 contract (Order Number 20139-PC-60) Stewart Warner
   serial number 22XX, with both original meters in reasonably decent
   mechanical and cosmetic condition.  This radio served with the US
   Navy (has the Diode Load jack on the front panel) and I even have
   documentation as to where it spent its' tour of duty at sea.  However
   no other manuals are included.
   It  has  been  in  storage  for  several  years  and  will need a good
   cleaning.
   The major issue with the cosmetics is that along the way someone
   drilled  a  hole in the front panel to install a toggle switch used to
   turn the
   power  on  and  off.  It can of course be reversed and the hole filled
   with
   J B Weld but it is possible that the normal power switch is broken.
   I cannot give any indication on its' electrical performance because I
   have not powered it up.  However I have some notes dated 12/24/2003
   that were made by someone who did apply power to it and recorded his
   observations:
   "Receiver functions but audio is distorted and BFO signal is a
   bit weak for copying SSB."
   Other things I observed are:  Modules seem to be original (at least
   the ones I can see).  The ballast tube was replaced by a resistor
   and the power supply was modified for diode rectification.  I am told
   that  all  Navy  R-390As  were so modified but I don't know if this is
   fact
   or  fiction.   The AC line filter on the back panel is missing and the
   line
   cord installation is jury-rigged but looks okay.
   I would prefer local pickup (of course) and I am about two hours
   northwest of Boston and three hours north of Hartford CT.  I can
   deliver to Hosstraders in May (but would expect payment earlier).
   I  will  ship  it  if necessary.  I would ship in two cartons but this
   adds
   a bit to the cost.  Buyer is responsible for packing costs and the
   actual freight charges.  The total cost is dependent on distance
   of course.  Estimate two 50 pound boxes from 05047.
   I figure that $650.00 plus shipping is a reasonable price for this
   radio.  It can be made very nice with a minimum of effort and
   completely restored with more effort.
   Photos are available.
   If interested please reply by e-mail.
   73,
   Michael
   W1RC*AT*VERIZON*DOT*NET