[Eric T]

Anyone have a recommendation for reproduction pushbuttons for this model?

Here is a picture of the originals, which are slowly disintegrating:

[img][Image: http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r233/...52_945.jpg][/img]

[NostalgiaRadioTime]

You can find reproductions here: http://www.renovatedradios.com/parts.html

Scroll down about mid-page.

[Eric T]

Thanks a bunch. those look like the exact part. I just ordered a set.

While I'm at it, does anyone know what the original pilot light lens and door knob look like?

[audiomagnate]

I understand the new ones don't need the brass clip, and that you can trade your old ones in for $1 each. I have a 39-45. Do you have pics? What are you using for grill cloth, assuming yours had to be replaced.

[Eric T]

After looking at the originals again (they were in a plastic bag when I bought the set), I'd recommend keeping the brass clips. You probably won't need them, but they'll keep the buttons from falling all over the place while the brass faceplate is not fastened to the cabinet.

Here's a pic of it:

[Image: http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r233/...3139_n.jpg]

This radio has the original grill cloth, and the cabinet is in excellent shape. The only serious imperfection is a bit of the veneer about an inch square chipped off the back edge of one side. The speaker looks like it's new, but it's the original. Electronically, it is also in excellent shape. The power transformer doesn't even run hot even though my house electricity runs at 126 VAC. The biggest issue is that one of the pre-set station coils is missing.

Also, I think this set is one that has the etched dial glass that makes it easy to re-do the white lettering.

[audiomagnate]

Can.t see the pic.

[Eric T]

Should be able to see it now.

[audiomagnate]

Very nice! I need to get motivated to do something with mine. I have a love/hate relationship with the looks.

[Eric T]

I love the performance of this set, but the looks leave me flat. I'm hoping that getting it looking as original as possible will help.

The repro buttons should arrive tomorrow. I'm still trying to figure out what the pilot light jewel looks like so I can get a replacement. I'm also looking for an original cabinet knob.

[Ron Ramirez]

The original jewel was made of Tenite, which is infamous for warping and shrinking over time. I *think* the originals were more or less flat with a slightly concave surface, red in color.

[audiomagnate]

I wonder what people thought of that style when it came out. Most people that see mine think it's from the fifties.

[Eric T]

Well the buttons have arrived.

First impressions: the visible portion looks great. The plastic on the back half of them is a little softer, though. I transplanted the brass clips into them and put the buttons into their slots on the faceplate. I'm just guessing how they go in-- clips down, right? The buttons are exact matches for what's left of the originals in size and shape. They seem to be a bit loose and sloppy, though. Maybe I've got them in wrong.

Anyway, here it is:

[Image: http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r233/...52_723.jpg]

[Image: http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r233/...14_130.jpg]

[audiomagnate]

Too bad they are loose. They look good. I'm jealous of your original grill. Are you going to try to clean it up a bit?

[Eric T]

Here's some pics of the actual buttons.

After transplanting the brass clips:

[Image: http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r233/...1377917533]

Back side view of the buttons in their slots in the escutcheon:

[Image: http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r233/...1377917525]

Again, I'm just guessing how they go in, based on the wear patterns inside the slots. They were already removed when I bought the radio.

Audiomagnate: I have considered cleaning the grill cloth, and will do it eventually. I want to find the least destructive method first, since it is in such good physical shape.

[audiomagnate]

I just wonder if dry cleaning would be the way to go.