[Nolan Woodbury]

Hi Scott,

Although I've been around antique electronics (hmm...antique everything would be more accurate) my whole life, I was in your shoes about three years ago. Since then I've recapped/repaired/restored several sets. I've destroyed a couple too...well, ruined beyond my ability (or patience) to fix anyway. It happens.

There are many radio books, but I purchased "Antique Radio Restoration Guide" by David Johnson (ISBN 0-87069-638-6) read posts and websites, and tore a few radios down. The book helped not only my understanding of how a radio works, but also which tools and supplies I'd need. All the info for paper capacitors (your first priority) electrolytics (second priority) and rectifiers (third) is listed in the book, and available from the advertisers here at AK. I use AES in Tempe, AZ; about 1-hour from my house. Tom Bavis here at AK is a great source for schematics.

After you've rooted around for awhile, it'll be easier to ask, and answer questions here, as a lot of these guys have been at it for a long time.

Nothing replaces experience though, so tear one apart and get learning! It's a fun hobby, I really enjoy it-