Thinking about getting Philco model 14

[Bando]

Hey All,

I think this is the right section to post this in. I am looking at a old Philco model 14 radio to purchase. The guy is asking 50$ and from the pictures it looks to be in good shape. The radio has been "untested." The tube compliment apparently is 2-44, 1-36, 3-37, 2-42, 1-80. Is there anything to really "watch out for?" I do not mind a good project.

Previous experience is building a KT88 SE point to point and various pre-amps.

 

[lexx21]

When you say "watch out for", do you mean as far as condition or when you go to bring it to working order? If it is the latter, chances are that it doesn't use a power transformer and is rectifying directly from the wall socket. That is pretty dangerous......

If it's the former, then I guess as long as there aren't rats living in it.....

 

[JonSnell Electronic]

As lexx21 says, live chassis. Very common back in the 60's so watch the polarity of the mains. Years ago, I remember 220V DC mains!

 

[rayma]

The radio has been "untested." Is there anything to really "watch out for?"

He probably tried, and found that it doesn't work. Unless it "lights up," I'd offer half that.
Do you have a Variac?

 

[Bando]

Unfortunately I do not have a variac. From the info provided it was made in 1933 and it does have a power trany. What I ment from what to look out for is what to expect and pitfalls of 'vintage' radios.

 

[rayma]

what to look out for is what to expect and pitfalls of 'vintage' radios.

There could be bad tubes or bad electrolytic capacitors. Test the filaments for continuity.
Look for suspicious burn marks or leakage on components.