docmac
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"Inconceivable!"
Posts: 77
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Post by docmac on Apr 9, 2023 14:40:27 GMT -7
I just unpacked my amps after a long period of storage. I have Maz Jr NR and Mini Z heads. Both were stored in the original boxes. Storage wasn't temperature controlled but was behind a vapor barrier. I just watched the yearly maintenance video which I take as a minimum. Is there anything I need to watch out for or are there specific tests I need to do before firing them up?
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Post by scottyc13 on Apr 10, 2023 3:46:29 GMT -7
If they were well stored, there shouldn’t be an issue. You could clean the contacts of the tubes with contact cleaner. Pull them out and keep them in order. Spray Deoxit or similar electrical contact cleaner on a Q Tip and wipe the tube contact points. Insert the tube back in the socket and move it up and down a couple of times. That cleans the socket. Make sure all the tubes are in securely before starting up. You can also do that with the input jacks.
If it’s been a real long time, like decades, you could start it up on a variac or use a current limiter. Amp builders use these items when starting up new builds. I have both. The limiter is just a 100 watt light bulb wired in series with an outlet. You plug the amp into the outlet and the bulb into your wall or a variac. When you start up, the bulb should glow then dim if all internal wiring is correct. If it stays bright, then something is not correct and the bulb protected the amp. Most likely this is not necessary for you.
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docmac
Junior Member
"Inconceivable!"
Posts: 77
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Post by docmac on Apr 10, 2023 7:10:13 GMT -7
Thanks for the reply. Does the current limiter require an incandescent bulb?
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Post by premiumplus (Dave) on Apr 10, 2023 7:37:00 GMT -7
Thanks for the reply. Does the current limiter require an incandescent bulb? Yes it does. Get 'em before they're outlawed!
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docmac
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Post by docmac on Apr 10, 2023 7:43:57 GMT -7
That makes sense. When using the variac, use a standard variac and slowly bring up the voltage? Or is something like the Brown Box suitable?
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Post by sharkboy on Apr 12, 2023 16:38:58 GMT -7
That makes sense. When using the variac, use a standard variac and slowly bring up the voltage? Or is something like the Brown Box suitable? This is to make sure the electrolytic capacitors don’t blow and take out the transformers. I think you want to start much lower than the Brown Box will go.
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Post by scottyc13 on Apr 13, 2023 3:44:14 GMT -7
That makes sense. When using the variac, use a standard variac and slowly bring up the voltage? Or is something like the Brown Box suitable? The light bulb limiter is easy to make. If you’re not comfortable with electronics, there are sites you could buy one. Here’s instructions on how to build one. I use a 100w incandescent. www.doktorsewage.com/tools-of-the-trade-light-bulb-limiter/You also don’t need the variac if you are just testing an amp that has been stored for a while. The limiter will do that. If the bulb lights, then dims, you’re all set. Remember to disconnect the limiter before playing as the amp won’t sound very good with the 100w resistance from the bulb. If you do want to get a variac, Amazon has them. I got a YaeCCC Auto Voltage Transformer AC Variable Voltage Converter Transformer 110VAC Input, 0-130VAC (500W) for $47. That’s all you need. Variac was a brand name BTW. The Brown Box is an excellent device to use where wall voltage may be too high for a vintage amp. They’re expensive though over $300. You wouldn’t use one for this test.
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docmac
Junior Member
"Inconceivable!"
Posts: 77
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Post by docmac on Apr 13, 2023 16:08:10 GMT -7
Yeah, Variac is like Coke. Thanks for the link. I shouldn't have any problem building one. The hard part will be finding a 100 incandescent bulb.
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