[R-390] bfo hum and s meter not on zero

[Larry H]

Hi Jeff,  Sounds like you might have 2 separate problems.  First, I'd replace the 3 tubes involved, just to be sure it's not them.  For the hum, check the bfo output for modulation with a scope.  Alternatively, you could temporarily add 10 mfd to bfo B+ line at the bfo switch.  Or perhaps c533 and c534 could be bad.  For the neutralizing issue, it could be c529.  I'm assuming your AM reception is good.
Regards, Larry