Radio chassis needs a bath and fumigation

[7"estatdef]

Well it depends what sort of condition it's in. Simplest would be dust it off to worst case which means a lot of parts removal and rust removal, paint if it is really rusty. Sometimes it also may depend on the value of the set. A set that is pretty valuable maybe better left in a close to original as possible condition.Get it working but try to make the replacement parts look vintage. Some folks will just snip out the old part and solder in the little yellow or orange cap and leave it at that when others will take the time to restuff and handmake some parts like dogbone / body end dot resistors to replace the originals. It give the set a real vintage look when you show it to your geek buddies or put it up for sale. You wouldn't want your greatgrand kid to think this set had orange drops in it from 1935!

A number of years ago I trash pick a 1948 tv set cabinet was great but the innards was awful! Looked like it went camping without a tent for ten or fifteen years or so. Very Rusty!!! After lots of parts replacement I got it working but what to do with the chaiss? Well I masked all the toob sockets and tuner the rest got the wire wheel. Then a few coat of grey hammertone spray. I wish it worked as good as it looks. Still has some minor horiz issues. I think it was an amazing recovery.
Terry
Philco 70 chairside is still in traction

[rollei35guy]

Those are good ideas for rust. And the usual dust.

But what about sticky crud? Like sticky crud with sawdust, dust bunnies and lord knows what else? (no mouse droppings or it would be in the trash!)

I'm thinking of a spray solvent is needed. But don't want to disolve the working components!

The radio works after a couple electrolytics and re-soldering a dozen bad solder joints. Just still nasty inside. Must have been in a kitchen for a long time. The outside got cleaned but not the inside.

[rollei35guy]

Terry,

The philco looks great! Good transformation.

I often restuff cardboard multi-sections and cans just because sometimes it's easier than figuring out a different mounting system.

I don't mind someone seeing orange drops or yellow drips when they open up a set.

I have thought about stuffing and re-waxing those old wax paper caps though.

[7"estatdef]

Well I've used things like Kerosene, really stinky WD-40, Mek, odorless mineral spirits, white gas, alcohol. All should be used with care as they are combustible. I like petroleum distillates most evaporate quick and are strong. Good for cleaning wax dripping. Sometimes a heatgun is a good tool to get off sticky drips and other stuff.
Terry

[rollei35guy]

Maybe kerosene and a match???

I'm thinking you are right about some kind petroleum distillates. Something more refined like alcohol that evaporates quickly. Will have to test certain areas ahead of time in case it would turn the thing into a mass of goo.

Thanks!

[7"estatdef]

If you could post some pic's it would be helpful.

Terry

[rollei35guy]

Originally Posted by 7"estatdef

If you could post some pic's it would be helpful.

I'll try to snap some tonight.

Where is Roslyn PA? I grew up, went to elementary and jr/sr high school in Concordville (near Media) PA.