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PHILCO 50
#1

I'm done restoring a Philco 50. Everything's fine. Perfect. But, the power transformer is much hotter than that of the other models I have.
I am afraid that I will have coils crossed by the wear of the enamel.
It is also true that the transformer is located under the chassis. This can affect the temperature.
Has anyone encountered this problem?It is normal? Or do I have to worry about the bad condition of the transformer? At first glance it seems in good condition.

Thank you.
#2

Unfortunately with the power transformer under the chassis it does run hotter. Have seen a few 50's with replacements in them. It's not an easy one to replace because of the 2.5v filament winding. If a replacement is needed converting the set to 6v tubes (changing out the 47 for 42 socket) might be the least painful way to go.
As for the transformer you have I would check the voltages from the center tap to each end to see if they are equal. Check the heater voltage at one of the 2.5v tubes and see if it's 2.5v. If it's higher they you could lower the mains voltage which in turn would help the transformer run cooler.

When my pals were reading comic books
I was down in the basement in my dad's
workshop. Perusing his Sam's Photofoacts
Vol 1-50 admiring the old set and trying to
figure out what all those squiggly meant.
Circa 1966
Now I think I've got!

Terry
#3

Perhaps it's a good prospect for lowering the line voltage by 12 volts or so by using a bucking transformer.
#4

Thank you. Tomorrow I will check tensions. As for swapping it for a 6.3 volt one, I don't like it. I'm interested in keeping the radios, the way they were designed in their day.
I am surprised that Philco designed a model with the power transformer under the chassis.
#5

Perfect !!!!!! (bucking transformer.)
#6

Just have to ditto everything that has been said: 50 xfmrs runs hot because inside chassis; today's voltage is higher so radios run hotter; use bucking transformer.

People who do not drink, do not smoke, do not eat red meat will one day feel really stupid lying there and dying from nothing.




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