12-11-2023, 08:06 AM
+1 on Bob's comments. Ron (God rest his soul) wrote extensively on the 89/19's "autodyne" converter. This info can be found in the library.
Check the tuning capacitor to make sure that the plates are clean and do not short. the aluminum in these caps sometimes corrodes and whisker-like strands of aluminum oxide can cause shorting. Use an automotive feeler gauge to clean. Some Philco Phriends have removed these caps, placed in a dishwasher or ultrasonic cleaner then baked dry, with very good results. There are big issues with the insulating materials of the tuning cap, trimmer and even possibly the tube socket absorbing moisture. Ron recommended baking the "oscillator" coil. Maybe try to put the whole chassis in the oven, but at a temp of no more than 150 deg F.
Good luck. Although Ron said that the 89 was repairable to a reliable state, IMHO (and not having the experience that many of the experts have), I think that the 89 came from the 7th ring of #&!! I repaired one for a friend, upgraded the 36 to a 77, rewound the coil several times, and finally got it working. This thing kicked my @$$, and it is coming back to me as soon as i fix the same guy's Model 20.
Check the tuning capacitor to make sure that the plates are clean and do not short. the aluminum in these caps sometimes corrodes and whisker-like strands of aluminum oxide can cause shorting. Use an automotive feeler gauge to clean. Some Philco Phriends have removed these caps, placed in a dishwasher or ultrasonic cleaner then baked dry, with very good results. There are big issues with the insulating materials of the tuning cap, trimmer and even possibly the tube socket absorbing moisture. Ron recommended baking the "oscillator" coil. Maybe try to put the whole chassis in the oven, but at a temp of no more than 150 deg F.
Good luck. Although Ron said that the 89 was repairable to a reliable state, IMHO (and not having the experience that many of the experts have), I think that the 89 came from the 7th ring of #&!! I repaired one for a friend, upgraded the 36 to a 77, rewound the coil several times, and finally got it working. This thing kicked my @$$, and it is coming back to me as soon as i fix the same guy's Model 20.
"Do Justly, love Mercy and walk humbly with your God"- Micah 6:8
Best Regards,
MrFixr55
