05-25-2008, 03:01 AM
I have been using clear GE silicone sealant/glue type adhesives ( GE type household glue) for over 20 yrs to re-attach the old orig wax-coated loop antennas back to their orig positions when loose. Not saying using it effects direct contact with copper? I dunno,.. but the sets loop-antennas I repaired over 20 yrs ago are still working fine on all my sets. I have repaired 100s of those type vintage litz-wire, & solid small- copper wire loop type antennas. No orig "litz-wire" cloth deterioration at all in those many yrs-ago since application of the silicone, and I still use it when the need calls for it. Once those orig loop antenna wires are "sealed", and attached to the rear cover, etc, with the silicone, they stay "put" forever.
No signal-strength "gain or loss" for orig loop antennas whatsover after applying the clear silicone adhesives in my yrs of using it. You can apply it while listening to your favorite-distant stations, and no change in reception at all. As "Brill-Cream" use to advertise, "just a little-dab will do ya"!! 100% silicone-glues are non-conductive in these type applications. Has worked for me Many times with no remorse whatsoever.
There is probably something better to use? Im always open for better type suggestions indeed. I learn something new everyday working on these old tube type radios!
While were on the subject of using silicone adhesives in the vintage radio repairs, another "tip"... is that the "fast drying" Black color (gasket sealers) avail in a hand-held tube works great for repairing torn Spkr Cones also!! You can get it at any local Auto Parts Stores or WalMart automotive supplies area. It dries fast, is flexible, and always moisture-proof once applied. I have saved many vintage spkrs using it over the yrs also. Careful application is required indeed!!
JB Weld is also very forgiving when forming new (metal-type) parts replacements, or attaching metal-to-metal parts on vintage radios including control-shafts extensions,etc when necessary! It is also non-conductive? Ive never been able to get a "continuity-test" across it before! Just sharing some tips that have always worked well for me.
No signal-strength "gain or loss" for orig loop antennas whatsover after applying the clear silicone adhesives in my yrs of using it. You can apply it while listening to your favorite-distant stations, and no change in reception at all. As "Brill-Cream" use to advertise, "just a little-dab will do ya"!! 100% silicone-glues are non-conductive in these type applications. Has worked for me Many times with no remorse whatsoever.
There is probably something better to use? Im always open for better type suggestions indeed. I learn something new everyday working on these old tube type radios!
While were on the subject of using silicone adhesives in the vintage radio repairs, another "tip"... is that the "fast drying" Black color (gasket sealers) avail in a hand-held tube works great for repairing torn Spkr Cones also!! You can get it at any local Auto Parts Stores or WalMart automotive supplies area. It dries fast, is flexible, and always moisture-proof once applied. I have saved many vintage spkrs using it over the yrs also. Careful application is required indeed!!
JB Weld is also very forgiving when forming new (metal-type) parts replacements, or attaching metal-to-metal parts on vintage radios including control-shafts extensions,etc when necessary! It is also non-conductive? Ive never been able to get a "continuity-test" across it before! Just sharing some tips that have always worked well for me.