buickguy62
Active Member
I'm rebuilding an Eico HF22 power amp, and replaced (C13) the original standard paper-foil .033uf line-to-ground cap with a correct new Safety Cap. I used a Y2 (line to ground) .033uf (same uf as original) 250VAC Safety Cap. On varistat power up, at about 85 VAC, I felt a decent voltage tickle from amp chassis to building ground. My digital VOM indicated no voltage from the chassis to ground, either AC or DC. I prefer a two wire connection (no third wire ground) to prevent ground loops. Removed the 5U4 rectifier, issue remained, which eliminated most of the circuitry. Further troubleshooting indicated the issue to be the Safety Cap. Upon removal of the new Safety Cap, the tickle was eliminated, would have been a decent poke at 115 VAC. I tried a second identical Safety Cap, same issue, tickle, amp chassis to ground. Now, with no cap, the amp is silent as to hum, I plan on leaving it off.
Issue for me is that the safety cap was passing sufficient current to cause a shock, which seems to be completely opposite of the design and operation of the safety cap. I did check the value on my Heathkit cap checker, cap not shorted and within specs, no leakage, tested up to 350V. See pics.
Thoughts,
Tom
Issue for me is that the safety cap was passing sufficient current to cause a shock, which seems to be completely opposite of the design and operation of the safety cap. I did check the value on my Heathkit cap checker, cap not shorted and within specs, no leakage, tested up to 350V. See pics.
Thoughts,
Tom