[Chuck Schwark]

There is more than one way to "skin a cat, " but I've found this method works well for me, keeps me from cracking the bakelite "tub" and makes the repair virtually invisible:

http://www.philcorepairbench.com/capbuild.htm

[Image: http://www.philcorepairbench.com/images/bblok-01.jpg]

[49Stude63]

Chuck your method does work well and does not require a great deal of effort. I figure that if someone just starting out (like me) can do it and not turn the blocks into jigsaw pieces then it works.

[Jerry Huelsbeck]

Alot of people complain about the blocks --- but after recapping/ restuffing a radio full of cardboard tube caps, rebuilding the bakelite blocks is a welcome change. I think one of Philco's better ideas

[Chuck Schwark]

Alot of people complain about the blocks --- but after recapping/ restuffing a radio full of cardboard tube caps, rebuilding the bakelite blocks is a welcome change. I think one of Philco's better ideas

I agree - lots of room in there by using contemporary poly caps....

[Image: http://www.philcorepairbench.com/images/bblok-06.jpg]

[Guest]

Hi Chuck! Good to talk to you..Those bakelite block condensers look clean.
Perfect job!!I can tell that, for you, it's a labor of love. I know from experience those bakelite tubs are hard to clean. I use two clamp lamps--
one pointed down, and one pointed up. Put the block on a saucer and place inbetween the lamps and leave it cook for 10-15 minutes and voila!!
Thankfully, the newer and smaller components will fit right in the tub and
without re-potting is fairly easy. Your new work is hidden with the new
"condenser" in place. I used to have a collection of maybe 50 of them-some still read good!!-so between me and Ray Bintliff, there are at least
two collectors. LOL.

[Chuck Schwark]

Stephen,

Leaving any of the potting tar behind insures that you'll get it all over yourself or transfer it to unwanted areas if not completely cleaned. (Maybe it's just me...?)

I use cotton swabs to finish cleaning out the nooks and crannies - just the anal engineer in me that likes things tidy, I guess.

[Poston Drake]

I agree with Chuck, I always try to remove all traces of the old tar potting compound. Once the bulk is removed, the remainder comes out easily using a solvent such as lacquer thinner on a cotton swab or rag. A strong solvent such as lacquer thinner will be harmless to the bakelite housing.