Replacement or repair options for a Heathkit W5M Power Transformer?
- Thread starter postman56
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The W5M are known to be hard on power transformers. There are a couple of issues with repairs. First, this is probably not something you would take on yourself (I wouldn't) and, second, the transformers are potted. This means they are embedded in tar in an enclosure that this often means that rewinders don't really want to mess with them because you have to melt out the tar and then deal with a gunky transformer.
That said, you might still call the two main rewinders out there I know of: Heyboer and Transcendar, and see if they'll do it (contact info on their web sites). Email or phone call (they were both pretty responsive on the phone when I have called).
Short of that, you'll need to watch for one to come up on auction sites, or go to Barter Town here (you have to be a subscriber) and do a "wanted to buy"; either the transformer itself or a parts unit with a good transformer.
A lot of these were sold, so there are probably parts floating around out there, but the PT problems may serve to keep the supply of parted out transformers limited. Some with more direct experience than me on this unit may chime in.
One final option--using the transformer specs buy and install a new production unit from vendors like Edcor or Hammond--you might even be able to repot them, depending on the dimensions (this comes with it's own set of problems, like heat build up). Or just install it and enjoy the amp even if it looks a little different from the original. Food for thought.
Good luck with it. These are excellent amplifiers once restored.
Dave
That said, you might still call the two main rewinders out there I know of: Heyboer and Transcendar, and see if they'll do it (contact info on their web sites). Email or phone call (they were both pretty responsive on the phone when I have called).
Short of that, you'll need to watch for one to come up on auction sites, or go to Barter Town here (you have to be a subscriber) and do a "wanted to buy"; either the transformer itself or a parts unit with a good transformer.
A lot of these were sold, so there are probably parts floating around out there, but the PT problems may serve to keep the supply of parted out transformers limited. Some with more direct experience than me on this unit may chime in.
One final option--using the transformer specs buy and install a new production unit from vendors like Edcor or Hammond--you might even be able to repot them, depending on the dimensions (this comes with it's own set of problems, like heat build up). Or just install it and enjoy the amp even if it looks a little different from the original. Food for thought.
Good luck with it. These are excellent amplifiers once restored.
Dave
Heyboer might be willing to unpot it and repair it or wind a new one and repot it. Also try Pacific Transformer. I'm pretty sure Heyboer would just make you a new one if you give them the specs, but it will not look the same.
Hammond doesn't make anything comparable, unfortunately--or even remotely close to the 910VAC secondaries.
Hammond doesn't make anything comparable, unfortunately--or even remotely close to the 910VAC secondaries.