Quote:
Originally Posted by Kamakiri
While I understand the premise behind reforming the electrolytics, if you've got a set that you actually want to watch, isn't it easier in the long run just to replace the stupid things?  |
easier... maybe but not by much. I just disconnect the leads and hook up the variable power supply. after that I just walk away and check on it now and then. If they check out I reconnect the wires and its good to go.
I have MANY sets that are daily drivers, examples are my predicta and portacolor, the predicta had one bad can cap, the one with a low volt high value. the other two (a doubler and a mutisecion can that lays down in the back) checked out fine. I use it daily and its fine.
the porta color has its orig caps (1972 IIRC) its on for hours everday and I have had no problems at all with it.
I have a zenith CCII same story, and many sets from the 60's same deal.
I do of course come across bad caps, and when they test bad I replace them, but I do not just wholesale replace, I just dont see the need.
Besides frankly I sometimes wonder if the new caps will last any longer. I am not saying its right or wrong but it works for me.
When I do find a bad one, I use a bone saw, cut the can off at the shoulder, use a pin vice to drill holes from the bottom up, then put tall skinny radial caps in and solder them to the existing can terminals. Takes about 5 min per section so its fast, and I leave the orig lead dress alone. if there is a cardboard cover I will just put the now empty alum can back on and use the sleeve on to hold it, if no sleeve I use a little bit of 5 min epoxy around the edge (after cleaning it up).
The down side is the epoxy is not that strong a joint, so if at some time in the future, someone grabs the can like a handle for the chassis they may be in for a big surprise when it lets go.
after reading Pentodes method of using an expanding internal sleeve I will have to give that a try.
I have tried the uncrimp method, but that just takes a bit more patience than I have. the bone saw while crude is easy and quick.
I promise no more reforming on this thread, I don't want to come across as a zealot.