Hello AKers,
I just picked up a BA-3000 at a local estate auction. I did not get it for peanuts, but did snag it for far less than units in poorer cosmetic condition with no refurb work tend to go for, at least from what I have been able to gather. Although I was able to examine the cosmetic condition of the unit before bidding, testing operation was not possible. This might be a good thing as I have no idea of when the amp was last in use and a sudden "plug in and power on" could have been very bad. Cosmetically I would say it is in excellent shape given that it's been around for nearly 42 years. I have attached photos showing it in exactly the state I received it in. I have not even given it a wipe-down or dusting yet as I'd like to know the best methods for cleaning the various parts of the amp. In particular I want to use something that will not harm or damage the silk screened lettering. Any ideas? From inspecting the panel screws it does not look to me that anyone has been inside the amp since assembly. I have read over many of the detailed BA series refurb threads here on AK, but many of them begin with an amp that is showing signs of a problem. I'd like to have some suggestions as to how I should approach looking over this lovely piece before applying any power. I have all the technical tools available for measurement and part testing (meters, scope, variac, generators, etc.) and have worked on a number of pieces in the past. My current train of thought:
Remove covers and clean and vacuum the interior and PCBs.
Inspect all PCBs and parts for signs of damage, overheating, etc.
Check all fuses.
Replace all VD1212 parts with 1N4148 dual diodes in series.
Check all transistor mounting (collector connection) bolts are tight, possibly removing and cleaning the PCB area first and then re-torquing.
Disconnect, clean, and re-seat all Molex connectors.
I'd appreciate thoughts from the large group of AKers with experience with these amplifiers and what other steps I should take.
Thanks!
I just picked up a BA-3000 at a local estate auction. I did not get it for peanuts, but did snag it for far less than units in poorer cosmetic condition with no refurb work tend to go for, at least from what I have been able to gather. Although I was able to examine the cosmetic condition of the unit before bidding, testing operation was not possible. This might be a good thing as I have no idea of when the amp was last in use and a sudden "plug in and power on" could have been very bad. Cosmetically I would say it is in excellent shape given that it's been around for nearly 42 years. I have attached photos showing it in exactly the state I received it in. I have not even given it a wipe-down or dusting yet as I'd like to know the best methods for cleaning the various parts of the amp. In particular I want to use something that will not harm or damage the silk screened lettering. Any ideas? From inspecting the panel screws it does not look to me that anyone has been inside the amp since assembly. I have read over many of the detailed BA series refurb threads here on AK, but many of them begin with an amp that is showing signs of a problem. I'd like to have some suggestions as to how I should approach looking over this lovely piece before applying any power. I have all the technical tools available for measurement and part testing (meters, scope, variac, generators, etc.) and have worked on a number of pieces in the past. My current train of thought:
Remove covers and clean and vacuum the interior and PCBs.
Inspect all PCBs and parts for signs of damage, overheating, etc.
Check all fuses.
Replace all VD1212 parts with 1N4148 dual diodes in series.
Check all transistor mounting (collector connection) bolts are tight, possibly removing and cleaning the PCB area first and then re-torquing.
Disconnect, clean, and re-seat all Molex connectors.
I'd appreciate thoughts from the large group of AKers with experience with these amplifiers and what other steps I should take.
Thanks!