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Does your 38-690 have the original back? - Printable Version

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Does your 38-690 have the original back? - Ron Ramirez - 02-16-2013

If you own a 38-690 with the original back, will you kindly do me a favor and give me some measurements, please?

I need accurate measurements of not only the overall height and width, but of the size and spacing of the holes.

A fellow collector is working on a reproduction back project and I'm trying to help him by finding these dimensions if possible.

Let me know. Thanks very much.


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - SteveJB - 02-20-2013

I dont have one on mine, but I am interested if one becomes available.
Steve


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - thirtiesradio - 02-22-2013

Mine has the back but it is in several (many) pieces. It is extreamly brittle and falls apart every time I handle it. It was missing some areas when I bought it. There is a neat logo and some other writing near the lower center. I'll see if I can piece it together and take some measurements. Here's a photo when first bought. Hopefully someone has a more complete example.


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - Electrothaumaturgist - 02-22-2013

Thirtiesradio, that is a stunning example of the backside. Have you restored it yet, or is it a works in progress? do you have other photos? Looks like a fantastic original!


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - thirtiesradio - 02-22-2013

Thank you.
It is a nice example and I think the fact that the back had been on it helped. I've only recapped the power supply/amplifier chassis. The radio plays well but I've stored it away until I have time to restore it properly. The cabinet is completely original, very nice and still has a shine. I'm just going to clean it up as it is has some grime from age. I just bought some grill cloth last week from a person at the local radio club as he had bought extra when it was still available. I've been looking for cloth since I bought it.


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - Electrothaumaturgist - 02-22-2013

That is unbelievably spectacular!!! None too often does one get a chance to even lay eyes on an untouched original such as yours, but to actually own one would be of the highest honor. I salute you sir!!! Is the grill cloth that bad where you need to change it? Sometimes it's worth it to keep it as is, (in the eyes of a purist) unless, of course, it's completely shot.


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - thirtiesradio - 02-22-2013

Thank you for the kind words.
The grill cloth has no tears but is badly soiled. I may be able clean it and I'll try that first before I replace it. I'm happy I have the cloth if the original doesn't clean up. It should be a great radio when finished.


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - thirtiesradio - 02-22-2013

Ron,
Here are photos I took this morning of whats left of the back. Two pieces broke off while moving it! The only part I'd like to keep is the center section with the writing, as I wanted to frame it with my radio. You can have the rest if you like as having the actual pieces may help you in getting the spacing and size correct. I have a friend with a completely intact back as well so I can have him take any photos and measurements you may need. I'd like to buy a reproduction if they are made.


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - Ron Ramirez - 02-22-2013

I really need the overall height and width of the back, if you can get these from your friend. I may need some other measurements as well; I'll let you know. We already have the dimensions and spacing of the holes, and the size of the artwork (center section).

I had been saving the artwork from a disintegrated 38-116 back for a project like this. I'm glad to see that the artwork of both 38-116 and 38-690 backs are the same.

Sorry to hear your original back has fallen apart. Icon_sad

And, by the way, your 38-690 does look very nice indeed! Icon_thumbup


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - thirtiesradio - 02-22-2013

Thank you Ron.
I'm guessing that you are working with Eddie Brimer? I contacted my friend Bob and he mentioned he is measuring his back this weekend for Eddie and would e-mail me the measurements. Hope this works out. It is a great project as there seems to be so many backs missing. There is a unusual type of clip that hold the backs on. Many people seem to be missing them as well.


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - Ron Ramirez - 02-22-2013

Oh, OK, Bob (sofaslug) is who you are referring to...yes, I'm helping Eddie, I scanned the artwork for him...and it is my understanding that Bob will furnish the measurements direct to Eddie, so this thread has served its purpose. Thanks all.


RE: Does your 38-690 have the original back? - thirtiesradio - 02-22-2013

That's great Ron. Glad everything seems to be working out Icon_smile