Working on vacuum tube electronics

[CobraJazz]

I'm interested in learning how to maintain and repair vintage audio gear. Also musical instruments and amps that use vacuum tubes. I know that some of the stuff carries lethal current, and can be dangerous even when its unplugged so I don't want to just jump in and get at it.

Does anyone have advice on where I might be able to find good information or training on how to get experience with fixing this type of equipment?

Thanks guys!

 

[oldmodman]

Find an OLD ham radio operator that maintains his own gear and learn from him.

And good luck finding a reasonably priced tube tester these days.

However:-D Tube Testers | eBay

Most of the problems on old tube equipment is capacitor related leakage problems. Surprisingly, most of the tubes will still operate, just not at a very good drift ratio from ideal.

 

[CobraBob]

There quite a few tube radio repair videos on YouTube. Here is one and if you watch it on YouTube you'll see others listed.

[youtube_browser]b1R9_VTPXnQ[/youtube_browser]

 

[CobraJazz]

That looks like a great start CobraBob! The ham radio guy idea is great too. Working with old radios is a terrific suggestion. I am wanting to be able to maintain and repair my Hammond organ, but it has been difficult to find information on fixing it. There must be a lot more people working with radios than old organs out there.

Techs are hard to come by, live far away from me and are expensive.

 

[Ron Mexico]

pawn stars have an old vacuum tube repair guy. he looks like he needs some companionship.