[Eric Adams]

I just got a GE radio with a ballast tube. I've never seen one(or heard of one) and was wondering how to test it.

I did some reading about it but couldn't find a test procedure. Any ideas?

Thanks,

[BrendaAnnD]

What's the number of the ballast?

[Eric Adams]

It's a BL42B

[morzh]

Eric

You simply measure resistance between the pins where the resistors inside the tube are connected to.
It is that simple.

[BrendaAnnD]

These ballasts are available from several sources for about $12. Looking at the schematic, I see that pin 3 to pin 7 should show continuity. Pin 7 to pin 8 is the dial lamp connection. To check both sections check from pin 3 to pin 8, then from pin 8 to pin 7

[Eric Adams]

Thanks, B A, I'll check it out.

[Eric Adams]

Well, you were right. No continuity at all. I opened it up just to see what it looked like and found broken wires inside. Has anyone put resistors inside the metal tube instead of replacing it?

[Eric Adams]

B A, where did you see them advertised?

[BrendaAnnD]

http://www.vacuumtubes.net/Prices%20Ballasts.htm

[Eric Adams]

Thank you. It will be ordered tomorrow.