12-19-2009, 10:43 PM
Welcome aboard. Lots of knowledgeable folks here, of which I'm the least knowledgeable! If that wire underneath is in as good a shape as you say, someone may already have done some restoration work. Getting some photo's to us through this post would be helpful. To answer a few diagnostic questions would also help. 1. With the unit UNPLUGGED and using a popsicle stick or pencil eraser, does any of the insulation on the wire under the chassis break or crumble when gently touched or rubbed? If it does, the wire will need to be replaced or covered with shrink tubing. 2. When the unit was plugged in, was there a lot of bass-hum coming from the speaker? Lots of hum could mean filter caps need replacing. 3. Are the capacitors under the chassis dirty and look like they are covered with or made from wax, or are they a bright orange or yellow? Waxy capacitors (especially if they are marked 'Philco') would indicate replacement is needed. Bright yellow or orange could mean someone refurbished some items. Again, photos of the underside of the chassis would help us guide you. 4. The wire that goes around the inside of the cabinet is probably the antenna, but frankly I've never seen a 42-390 so I'm speculating. Hope this helps!
Joe
Matthew 16:26 "For what does it profit a man if he gain the whole world, yet lose his own soul?"