The PHILCO Phorum

Hi Pholks!

I'm brand new to the Phorum, and brand new to radios. I have been building tube guitar and some hi-fi amps for a few years.

I'm here because a friend gave me her Philco, a 610 as I just discovered (see pic), and I'm looking to do a bit of restoration. From the photos, you'll see that it's in pretty good shape, and that someone has done a partial recap at some point. I brought it up on the variac w/ light bulb limiter, and it works! I was able to tune in several AM stations.

I've been soaking up some info here, so I have some idea what I'm in for, rebuilding bakelite blocks and such. Alignment sounds scary, but I'll burn that bridge when I come to it. The question I have at the moment is, do I have the right schematic. This is the closest I've found. It almost matches my tube complement. I've got a 41 output tube, it shows a 42. Would that be a common production variation? Or maybe whoever worked on it before changed tube types? Any clues much appreciated.

I'm excited! My first old radio! Until a few days ago I couldn't have told you what a field coil was. What? There weren't always permanent magnets??

John

Hi and welcome!

Yes, you have a 610B, and yes, the schematic you have is a 610 schematic.

The 610 underwent numerous circuit changes during production. In order to have all of these, I suggest you order the service pack for this set from Chuck - well worth the $7 cost.

http://www.philcorepairbench.com/

A 41 will substitute for a 42 in a pinch, but it's best to use the proper 42 tube. The characteristics of the two are not exactly alike, plus the 41 has lower output power.

Thanks, Ron. I've placed my order with Chuck, and found what looks to be a good 42 for a reasonable price on eBay.