[TV MAN]

Magrade, we all started somewhere. We all made (and still make) mistakes, and you will too. One of us mentioned starting on a simple AA5 - this is a basic 5 tube AM radio that is simple, inexpensive and readily available. You do need to know that the metal chassis on these are connected to one side of the ac line, and you will still run into some voltages of around 150v. You may want to avoid the newer printed circuit models, and look for a stamped steel chassis model - more like your Philco. You will not see a big power transformer in these. I think Mike (Morzh) mentioned some of the tools you need. I don't know if the meter you have is digital or analog, but I would recommend a digital, maybe from Harbor Freight. They are reasonable. Auto range and protection in case you make a mistake.

I got to thinking about your thread last night and I have a couple recommendations and a warning. In your Philco, you can have 300-400 volts easily, and if you don't know where they are, you can get a very nasty surprise. Ok, I have some reading material to recommend. A couple of good books to look for are: "How to repair Old-Time Radios" by Clayton L Hallmark, and "Practical Radio Servicing"  by Markus and Levy.  http://www.ebay.com/itm/Practical-Radio-...xy--NRwZt0 There are countless Youtube videos about restoring these.

Now, do you only want to restore this one radio or do you want to start a hobby? If you only want to restore this one radio, then best let someone else do it, if you want to do more, then start reading, get some basic tools and start practicing. Lots of help in this phorum. Oh, one more thing - expect to contract the radio virus!