[Ron Ramirez]

Thanks, Tim

Now - for Mike, and anyone else interested - a more comprehensive look at restuffing an aluminum electrolytic can.

I had already decided that I would open this one up at the top, where the seam is.

Having the boric acid solution still in the can was going to complicate things.

I had read where some collectors have used a utility knife to open these cans up. Prior to tonight, I've always used a Dremel tool and cutting wheel.

Tonight, I decided to try the utility knife. Trying to keep the can vertical, I began to slowly cut with the knife using my right hand to hold the knife, while rotating the can in my left hand.

It only took three revolutions of the can before the top popped off and a little electrolyte spilled onto the floor.

I disposed of the remaining electrolyte, then rinsed the now-open can out several times with hot water.

It then looked like this:

[Image: http://www.philcoradio.com/images/phorum/37640_052.jpg]

You can see the positive electrode inside the can.

Let's look at the bottom of the can:

[Image: http://www.philcoradio.com/images/phorum/37640_053.jpg]

I will be cutting the aluminum rod just below the solder terminal, for two reasons: One, to preserve and reuse the terminal; and two, to make it easy to remove the positive electrode.

[Image: http://www.philcoradio.com/images/phorum/37640_054.jpg]

Above, you can see that I have cut off the solder terminal.

Now, using a pair of long needle-nose pliers, I reached into the can from the top, grabbed the positive electrode, and pulled it out.

[Image: http://www.philcoradio.com/images/phorum/37640_055.jpg]

I disposed of the positive electrode and, after sticking a paper towel inside and wiping it around with the aid of a long screwdriver to remove any remaining moisture, the inside of the can looked like this:

[Image: http://www.philcoradio.com/images/phorum/37640_056.jpg]

more to come...