Meck XB-702 restoration

[bandersen]

I was recently contacted by a member of ARCI (Antique Radio Club of Illinois) to see if I was interested in a late 40s 7" set - model unknown.



I was happy to make a solid offer as there was no radio swapfest this year and the proceeds help fund the club.

I also got a tour of his excellent collection and basement workshop. Was able to see some high end radios I'd only seen in photos previously

He sent some photos including the cover of Sams showing a Meck XA-701 that looked similar.

A little detective work and thanks to Riders vol #3 I think we have a positive ID as a model XB-702.

There is a label inside but the model was trimmed off.



First the good. All knobs and present and the chassis appears to be 100% original. Even all four rubber feet are intact and in good condition. Have not tested the picture tube yet.




Now for the bad. It appears to have been stripped using a belt sander that wore through the veneer in a number of places.

At least if I do decide to replace it, it's basic mahogany crosscut veneer.