As to the caps conversion. I want to say the papers are generally replaced with polys right? It's been a while. What are good replacements for remaking the multi value cans?
Yes. You'd use modern plastic capacitors. Frankly, however, this set is too new to have paper caps in it. By the 70's they already had plastic caps, and good ceramics. Still something to watch out for though, and if you're having problems with the vertical, changing the caps in that circuit would be worthwhile. And check the resistors.
For the electrolytic cans, you won't be able to get exact replacements. They'll be multivalue cans, and chances are, there will be obsolete values in there. Just round up to the next standard value. So, to replace a 200UF capacitor, use 220UF. You can use normal radial or axial electrolytics. Come up with your own mounting solution - either terminal strips or perf board. When there are multiple caps in one can, all the negative leads are attached together (usually to the can itself).
joeycuda said:
I read that in restoring 50s televisions, you can often get them working by replacing all of the electrolytic capacitors.. I'm sure that's sometimes and not a general rule, but definitely a must for something that old.
For fifties sets, yes, you'd replace the electrolytics (of which there are only a few, in the power supply), and most importantly, the paper capacitors all over the set. They will be things like .01 at 630v, or .22 at 630v. The old wax paper and foil capacitors age very poorly. Electrolytics from that era (at least the metal can ones) are actually more reliable than the paper caps. I've got 50's era sets with their original electrolytics, since they still tested good. Paper caps all had to be changed though.
THIS set really is not that old. It's from about 1973, judging from the Photofact number. By then the capacitors were pretty good. Obviously, this one has lead a much harder life than most, since it was likely on all the time for years. Changing the power supply caps is probably a good idea. With the manual, you'll know what the B+ is supposed to be, so you can check to see if it's low or has ripple. If it is, then they definitely need to be changed.
A word of warning - be VERY careful working on a tube type television. The usual precautions of monitors apply, but the additional precautions of high plate voltage in tube type equipment also applies. There will be DC voltages in excess of four hundred volts in there. Just pay attention and be careful.
-Ian