The PHILCO Phorum

I am very new to radios. My wife bought me a very nice 38-2 (the Holland, MI one on ebay). Cabinet just needs some polish and wax, but the radio doesn't work very well.

First of all, I have been having troubles with reception. There is a DYI antenna cable attached to the radio that doesn't seem to be doing the job (works better when I hold it and worse when I let go). What should I be using for an antenna on this?

The volume is very low. I have to crank it up to full volume, and when I find a station, it is very quiet. It makes a noise that I think is what everyone calls "motor-boating". Is there something I need to test inside that might be causing both to go out?

Does anyone have schematics or documentation that might be helpful for this particular radio?

Thanks for your help!

JonFen

Hi Jon and Welcome!!!
Well you've got a nice set there. Antenna should be as long and as high outdoors as you can get it. Away from power lines and metal objects.

Sound like it's over do for some service work. Motor-Boating is usually cause by bad bypass condensers (caps), bad ground connections at ground lugs, and or missing tube shields. Would recommend replacement of all paper, Bakelite,and electrolytic caps. Wouldn't hurt to test the resistors while your in there too.

This set is a little more complicated than the average bear. If you enjoy working on old sets then it would be fun to do but it's not for the first timer.

Definitely replace those caps before you play it for any length of time as they can short and damage hard to get or replaceable parts. The good news is when you get it working properly it's a GREAT sounding set that has GREAT coverage for the shortwave band.

Service info: http://www.nostalgiaair.org/Resources/240/M0013240.htm

Terry

Thanks for the information and link, Terry.

I will replace those caps and hook up a proper antenna, and then, I will see how it sounds.

Great forum!

JonFen