SAMS shows the color level replacement as Mallory part number PP253R which uses their #2 right hand logarithmic taper. The chart shows at 50% it should be at 90% resistance (2.5K where mine measures 1.375K). Now it's possible that Zenith used a special logarithmic taper and the Mallory part is all that was available for the aftermarket.
It's odd that my pot being 20% high measures lower than what the Mallory chart says it should be but also odd I need way less resistance to get a good curve (300 to 700 ohms is the range that appears to be a happy medium when adjusting L17 and L19 yield a proper response curve).
Should I move on or does having to set the color level way high (1/4 turn from max) suggest there are other problems?
*Edit* The other factor is the signal level from the B&K 415 going into C1, I have it maxed out but as I turn it up I am able to back off the color level just a small bit. I suspect the only issue is I don't have enough signal strength going in.
In the subsequent Zenith Service Manual (CM-107) for the next roundie series chassis the directions include a note that the signal generator and scope may need to be set near the maximum, but don't overload.
