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Hi

So I have been asked if I can look at this 1969 model amp head because it is a bit scratchy and crackly apparently. The owner says it was working when he used it a few years ago and that if I can get it working in a reasonable manner then we can use it in our band.

This is the one with no master volume. It's in rough shape along with its cabinet, can I attack this thing with switch cleaner and a soldering iron or should I decline and insist that it gets the proper TLC it probably deserves from an amp tech? I'm handy with re soldering joints and know my way around a multimeter so if it isn't anything huge I'm sure I can do it. The owner is happy to leave it be as he isn't keen to spend any money on it presently.

Advice?
    Hmmm... there's a very good chance it needs recapping by now. In fact, the only reason it wouldn't need a recap is if it has already been done. So there's little chance you/he get away with not spending any money. Plus any valves it needs...
      Ask him to sell it to me... I'll ensure she is well looked after.
        As always, beware of those LETHAL voltages..... Learn how to discharge the caps if you open up the amp. Flogging a dead horse, I know...

        If the pots are scratchy, they are on their way out. Some good pot cleaner (not switch cleaner) will extend their life but they will need replacing.

        Other things to look at (after discharging :?) is retensioning (sp?) valve sockets, check the jacks have good tension especially on speaker jacks and effects loops, tighten jack socket nuts, look for burnt or darkened patches on the PCB/tagboard and make sure those components are good.

        Peter
          Thanks guys.

          I'm gonna see if I can find a decent amp tech in durbs and get a quote, not keen to make this into too much of a mission! ?

          Shaunf I'll ask if he wants to sell it and if so I'll put you 2 in touch, but I'm doubtful he'll want to let it go just yet.

          Thanks Peter, I would hate to kill myself working on somebody else's gear!
            You didn't mention the amp was already in Durbs. Unfortunately there aren't any well known techs around these parts who you could trust not to butcher this vintage amp. These old amps deserve to be preserved and treated with dignity. Trust me, I ended up learning how to work on these old Marshalls myself rather than trust the work of those who were supposed to be professionals.

            I would be happy to take a look at it for your mate and see what the problem is. Drop me PM if you're interested.
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