[Ron Ramirez]

Yes, the 37-116 has cloth-covered wiring. But that can also get dried out and once it does, the insulation is easily broken. But the insulation does not crumble and fall off of its own accord as does the rubber insulation on 1939-42 Philcos. The trick with the 1938 and older Philcos is to avoid bothering the wires if at all possible.

You're right, if you have others do your electronic work for you, a 1939-42 Philco will quickly become a money pit.