[Heath] DX-20 Power transformer survival?

[Glen Zook]

There is a chance that the power transformer survived.  Also, if there are problems with the transformer, sometimes it helps to pull the transformer from the unit and then cook it, upside down, on the kitchen stove until the tar melts.  Then, let it cool down for several hours before returning it to the transmitter.

Years ago, the high voltage transformer in my then DX-100 developed a high voltage short.  After cooking it the short disappeared and the transmitter was still working fine 15-years later when I gave it to an employee.

Of course, if you are married, don't do the cooking when she is around!  Wives just don't understand!  Besides, the cooking process can get a little "smelly".

If it doesn't work, then you haven't lost anything except a little time.
 
Glen, K9STH


Website:  http://k9sth.com


________________________________
 From: John Klingelhoeffer <wb4lnm at aol.com>
To: heath at puck.nether.net 
Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2012 6:19 PM
Subject: [Heath] DX-20 Power transformer survival?
 

A fellow ham asked me to take a look at his DX-20 after it had started smoking (enough to set off the smoke detector in the room!).  It was on, but reportedly not in transmit when this happened.  Really strange that this transmitter has no fusing at all in the primary AC circuit.  (That will be fixed, as well as adding a three-wire grounded power cable.)   

Pulling the chassis from the cabinet, there is a tablespoon of brown / black tacky goo that has drooled out of one of the power transformer holes onto the cabinet.  I figure something along the HV line has shorted, but have not looked at it further, yet.  The HV caps are not originals, but they are not spring chickens, either.  

My question to the group is: even if I remove the source of the short and repair it (assuming it is outside the transformer), is it likely that the transformer has suffered terminal damage or is it likely to be just fine for another 60 years?  
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