[jrblasde]

Thank you both! Yes, I agree that necessity is the mother of invention. I had researched this idea for about a week prior to presenting it here on the Phorum, and all I kept reading was that a broken or missing IF transformer (for anything other than the ubiquitous 455kHz AM intermediate frequency) was the end of the road. Many folks suggested purchasing another identical radio to use for parts, but I just couldn’t accept that. I’d rather leave as many radios available to other restorers as possible. 

    I do not take credit for this concept. I took the idea from another video I saw online which inspired me. Another guy had come up with something similar for a AM IF transformer. This design has ended up being fairly different, but that’s because we’ve had a lot more to contend with at higher frequencies. This design would not have been possible without the feedback from everyone who has taken the time to respond. I’m more than happy to share our findings here for all to benefit.

    Though this radio is just about done, this won’t be the last of my time on the Phorum. You all have welcomed me in, and I love it! I have a 48-482 in my garage which needs a restoration, but that one is going to be a lot of work. EVERYTHING in it is coated in a thick layer of dust and cigarette tar. It’s pretty yucky. But it was sold here in Tulsa according to a stamp inside of it, and so my heart is committed to restoring it and keeping it local. It is also missing the FM1000 tube, which I understand to be another scarce commodity these days. I may go the route of testing substitute tubes and altering the circuitry to accommodate.

    I have also been seriously considering a 46-480 that I’ve seen listed lately. It’s a beautiful console, and I have always wanted a console. It’s a bit rough looking, but I enjoy both the woodworking and the electrical restoration.