Silvertone 1485, Part 3: Circuit Overhaul, Speakers, Sound Check

In this third and final video in the Silvertone 1485 Restoration series, the chassis is overhauled, with all new electrolytic caps, a new 3-wire power cord, a replacement output transformer, an adjustable bias pot, reduced plate voltage, and a repaired reverb tank. Two speakers are re-coned, one is repaired, and all six are installed and wired. Finally, the amp is sound checked with all effects and controls tested.
Jack and KC make appearances in the video, as well as a surprise package from Paris, and we catch up on progress made on the 350 Chevrolet engine.
If you enjoy advertising-free videos like this, please subscribe to our channel and consider becoming a Patreon patron at / uncledougsvintageamps or making a PayPal contribution to [e-mail]. Thanks !!!
Link to the Speaker Re-Coning video: • How to Recone a Speaker

[@UncleDoug]

Please consider supporting our advertising-free channel by checking the links in the video description. Thanks !!!

[@rciancia]

Sent you a little boost to get more catnip :P

[@UncleDoug]

You did indeed, Ron. Thanks so much.

[@FingersOnAFretboard]

"One of the main components of good engineering...is just thinkin' ahead." -wise words, good sir!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, FF. Simple rules are always the best :)

[@stevenblakeakahashburns]

I love how you use words like extravaganza and behemoth in casual conversation 👍😃

[@UncleDoug]

Somebody has to :):)

[@BadChizzle]

Steve Blake I think we can do without the foul language, guys. 😝

[@robertcalkjr.8325]

I was thinking, he's going to say, ensconced. And then he did. lol

[@BadChizzle]

Robert Calk Jr. Sure... very good prediction. I was betting on installed. What do I know, though?! Ha ha 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@bubbyrne6731]

Uncle Doug, I patiently waited over the Christmas holidays for the final part of the Silvertone restore and I must say it was worth the wait. You certainly did not disappoint! I myself am a very crafty fellow in repairing, restoring, creating and such and I shamelessly declare, you never cease to amaze me with your exceptional quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Chevy motor is coming along quite nicely as well. I look forward to hearing it fire up in it's finished state. Keep the videos coming! ~Bub Byrne

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Bub. Your positive comments mean a lot. We will :)

[@julesl6910]

This Silvertone extravaganza has been my absolute favorite project. I'm mentally preparing myself to rebuild a Dynaco SCA-35 that is both magnificent and horrendous. Meticulously worked on over its life, but the last owner seems to have spilled a beer on the chassis and then allowed it to mold, rust and corrode. You cleaned up bladder juice and kidney nectar with such gorgeous results, you've encouraged me to do the same.

[@UncleDoug]

The removal of vile bodily fluids is only one of many skills required for a well rounded amp tech, Jules ;) Good luck with your project.

[@washedupguy2759]

Electronics, guitars, kitties, and 350 beautification. Hell, it doesn't get any cooler than that, Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, WUG......we try to please :)

[@MegaTubescreamer]

the explosive switch removal ploy is no doubt a throwback to your former safecracking exploits uncle doug!! the end result is nothing short of miraculous ,puts a smile on my face every time ,,,

[@UncleDoug]

Indeed, William. We were once notorious for our ability to open any safe.....with or without dynamite :)

[@bbmade]

Casey seems be thriving! Lucky cat that has earned a good home.

[@UncleDoug]

We had her spayed yesterday, so she's a little under the weather today, but it was long overdue. Thanks, BB.

[@adenihil]

Seeing the sad state of generalized incompetence and mediocrity in todays world ; you my friend, you reinstate my hope in humanity... I feel reassured that a bunch of other people share this point of view as per the many statements in your channels comments. Happy new year Uncle D and I hope you’ll treat us with many more of your entertaining\fun\fantastic videos.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Adrien. We will continue to do our best to justify your faith in our endeavors.

[@atbglenn]

Uncle Doug, we all love your videos. You really know your stuff. Say hello to Jack for me. I'm pretty close to 67 years old and I can appreciate an old timer like you that knows a whole lot more than I do.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Glenn. I learned the majority of it fairly recently, so it's never too late to start.

[@DeadKoby]

I'm always impressed at the extent that you're willing to go to. It's the difference between your average repair tech, and someone who really just wants to see it fixed. There's some stuff that is impractical to fix.... but with the assistance of others supplying pieces/parts, it makes things better.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, DK. This project could not have succeeded without the assistance of generous viewers. It's like a family meal, where every guest brings something special to the table.

[@JobyP]

Great work as always Doug! I have seen the reverb in a 1484 defeat a few very good amp techs... thus its reputation. Color me impressed! As always! Cheers!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Joby. I have worked on four Silvertone reverbs recently and three of them are now working fine. The fourth, however, is living up to their reputation :(

[@robertamato358]

I have some experience using the 1485 back in the late 60s. I used to borrow one for larger (mostly outdoor) gigs. The 120 watts gave me needed headroom that my 40 watt Fender couldn’t provide under the circumstances. I loved the amp but always hated that reverb! Splashy and thin! I used to pair that Silvertone with my Fender freestanding reverb and that puppy would rip! Great video. Brought back some good memories. Thanks.

[@UncleDoug]

Our pleasure, Robert. The addition of the 6G15 Fender unit would indeed be a welcome improvement.

[@backspin6698]

I don't understand much of the electronic stuff, but I love to see someone put so much work and love into old beauties and see the end result. From Behemoth to Beauty. Thanks for sharing.

[@rsgarza1968]

The lurid expose' was wonderful! I just purchased a 1484 from Flea-Bay and it's enroute to Austin! I will be referencing much of your wise wisdom as I attempt the cosmetic restoration. I hope to make many amplifier savvy friends like yourself real soon. But in case I land myself into trouble, we might be paying you and the children a visit!

[@UncleDoug]

We're here if your need us, Gina. Good luck with your 1484 project.

[@daniellarson3068]

Wow! I have an old SEARS 1483 guitar amp that had been sitting in the back shed for 40 years. I bought it used in High School. You certainly made me see it's value. Per your example, I'll clean it up. Good videos.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Daniel. By all means, get it out, clean it up, and see if it still works.

[@johnfeagin3947]

You are quite welcome Uncle Doug! Glad you'll be able to use them.

[@UncleDoug]

That was the best Christmas present I could have asked for, John. I've already used a bunch of the parts. Thanks again !!!

[@jonpardue]

Nice work! Wow the 1485 is quiet with the footswitch shield and grounding jacks. Thanks for explaining dependable and moderate bias in detail, that is really helpful with irreplaceable old amplifiers. The new engine is looking great, really clean up top with the intake-mounted crankcase vent.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jon :) You really don't have to roast your tubes to get good tone.

[@mattjones3795]

"The fuse looked a little huskier" haha great stuff. Happy New Year

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mark. At least it wasn't a .22 bullet :)

[@kendavis8046]

Happy New Year, Uncle Doug, and good to see this content. Both the amp and the engine are looking mighty fine. I got a chuckle for some reason when you mentioned that you had the engine on an engine stand. Back when I was a pup, we had two primary sources of auto repair information (excluding actual shop manuals, which were beyond the means of high schoolers' budgets,) Chilton and Petersons. We used to laugh about Petersons, because it seemed as though every procedure listed began with "Remove engine and place on engine stand." And I also fondly remember the J.C. Whitney catalogs back in the day. I helped a couple of friends replace VW engines (without an engine stand or engine lift, we just unbolted and picked them up) and you could pick up the rebuilt shortblocks for less than $100, plus shipping. Those were fun times.

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, they were, Ken, and I really miss them. I recall one bright summer day when I assisted in the removal of a SBC from a car.....without any engine hoist, just four young idiots grabbing onto chains and ropes and herniating themselves before realizing that none of us was strong enough to lift the $@%&?*&@ thing up over the fenders. Ah, the sweet memories of youth.

[@nicko6710]

Link Wray would be proud. KC is looking great.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Nick :)

[@michaelcross934]

Gifts from across the pond - all for u', Uncle Doug! No one else could be more worthy of receiving the box from France! Thank you for sharing your knowledge. You set the goal and give us inspiration. Cheers from Mike in Fernwood, BC, CAN

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Mike :)

[@lynnbath6423]

Uncle Doug, Another great restore/rebuild and presentation. Your attention to all of the details amazes me. Not to many would spend the time needed to make sure everything was correct and functioning as you have. I enjoy these videos greatly and I have a great love for vintage amplifiers and guitars. Some of the greatest sounds in the music world have come from these great vintage amps. Thanks for sharing with us and taking the time to explain everything as you go through the process of restoring these lost gems!

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, you're quite welcome, Lynn. Thanks for all your very nice comments :)

[@scottroberts3801]

Wow! You worked a miracle on that amp. I love your work with the attention to detail and the knowledge and skill to take an old amp like that and resurrect it to better than new is awsome. That's one of the sweetest sounding vintage apps I've ever heard. I wish that one day I could own a jem like that. Thanks for the great and informative videos, and saving music history .

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks so much, MR. We really appreciate your very nice comments.

[@kenhancock8931]

great to see ya today uncle doug :-) hope you have a great day!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ken. You, too.

[@DeWittPotts]

A good friend of mine had the smaller 50 watt 2X12 version of this amp back in the very early 70's. I saw the output transformer fail like the one shown here. It was a real spectacular failure. It was in a dark hall where we were playing a high school dance. All of a sudden there were flames shooting up from the back of the amplifier. It put on quite a show.

[@UncleDoug]

I'll bet the crowd loved it, DeWitt. This is probably how pyrotechnics shows, like those used by Kiss, originated :)

[@richardruth3315]

I opened my browser this morning and a new Uncle Doug video was waiting for me! Made my day, thanks to Uncle Doug, Jack, and KC. Great series here!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Richard. We're glad you enjoy our work :)

[@michel333100]

Hi Doug, just wanted to comment on video. You never fail to amaze me with your vast knowledge you have on cars and amps. It's also amazing how many other people think you are totally awesome. It's got to be in the 100's. I could listen all day to your videos. There's very few people like you around. Hope you keep doing these videos. Truly amazing. Thanks from Michael Newell from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

[@UncleDoug]

Wow.....thanks so much, Michael. It's great to hear some good old fashioned flattery and support once in a while :)

[@RhythemNBlues]

Uncle Doug, I really enjoyed this series. Your analysis and explanation is nothing short of amazing (as always)! What a pleasure.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, R&B......glad you enjoyed it.

[@Bigjoedo66]

Dr, Frankenstein has nothing on you, bringing your lifeless hulk back to life!! Well done

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Big Joe. Now if I can just stop it from saying "Fire.....bad !!!"

[@kenwinston2245]

Smoke . . . Good !

[@cchimi1]

Boy, do I ever remember that tremelo, and especially that wide open reverb! It made me laugh to hear them again. Thanks, Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, C1.......it's an electronic time machine :)

[@R3TR0R4V3]

What a gorgeous amp! I've been quite anxious to see part 3 and I see that everything turned out great. Great job, UD! Hope to see more Silvertone amp videos in the future. :-)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, WwM. By coincidence, a video featuring a 1474 is in the works.

[@R3TR0R4V3]

Fantastic! Looking forward to it. 👍

[@ThePreyMantas]

Just finished watching and that was an exercise touching all the bases. Workmanship and sound is excellent and troubleshooting intuitive! Turned out great!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, PM :)

[@MarshallSetUps]

I finally got to watch it tonight. Nice work. This was fun to watch.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Marshall.

[@garwhe7894]

I live close to the site where naugahyde was excreted from the bowels of the U.S. Rubber Company in Naugatuck, CT. It was a marvel of applied chemistry in its time, but driving through Naugatuck during those days was like taking a stroll through Satan’s colon after a long weekend of Jose Cuervo and Taco Bell. The stench watered the eyes and seared the nose. Thanks for all you do, Uncle Doug. Gary

[@UncleDoug]

You paint a pretty picture of the process, Gary. It sounds like a great location for a picnic. Thanks for the info......although now I feel guilty for using the product.

[@axdmlm]

I am in awe of your artistry. The amp is beautiful. The engine is also.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks, Mike.

[@boctok55]

Very nice video Doug. You bring history back to life. The reverb is interesting. I can see how the modern tank design won out. And that engine is looking very sharp!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, B55. The reverb is definitely "unique" :) I have since toned it down quite a bit and will probably post a short demo of the improved reverb in a future video.

[@steelcity321pb6]

You’ve certainly done a lovely transformation job on that Silvertone amplifier: it both sounds, and looks brilliant Douglas. I had to smile to myself when I saw how you had utilised a length of UK type mains lead inside the speaker cabinet. Since the American mains lead colours are black, white, and green, I’d say brown, blue, and green/yellow serves the speaker wire colour code requirement most handsomely. Seeing the reverb tank with the long coiled spring brought back memories of long ago. When I was in my teens and early twenties, we apprentices made reverb tanks using a length of timber onto which a length of form was stuck. A 17”, 110 degree monochrome c.r.t coiled ground spring (about 14” long) was suspended in a wooden frame (stuck to the form), slightly above two mono crystal record player cartridges (with their styluses removed) screwed to the wooden frame, and they were fed into an ECC83 double triode valve which was used as an audio signal driver. Surprisingly, that ‘Heath Robinson’ type of arrangement worked quite well. Youth is most certainly wasted on the young LOL! Phil.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Phil. So THAT'S why the insulation colors were so unusual :) Your Rube Goldberg reverb tanks sound really interesting.....obviously the product of youthful minds unfettered by the callousness of age.

[@srfrg9707]

You sir have both golden hands and mouth. Chapeau bas!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Λογος :)

[@ReFretted]

Fantastic work - I really enjoy your problem analysis / correction work. As well, salvaging the cabinets that I may have used to start a campfire make me anxious to work on my GA-30 RVT that is suffering from 30 years of neglect. I hate panel rust.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, RF. Best of luck with your own project(s).

[@timmyv694]

Awesome! I’ve been waiting to see this amp completed . It’ll be around another 50 years now . Excellent work Uncle Doug:)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Tim. Unfortunately, I won't be.....but hopefully, it will go to a good home :)

[@joseislanio8910]

A repair that made the amp better than it ever was! Also, I'm buying a 10" Jensen for a single ended 6v6 amp I'm building, those sound amazing

[@garyyarago2096]

No fancy botique pedal can make a sound like the mighty Silverton's reverb-- Quentin Tarantino needs it for his next film thank you from all the people who love these things, your knowledge and diligence are appreciated ( and your dry wit and furry friends)!

[@UncleDoug]

It would also be suitable for Freddy Kreuger soundtracks ;) Glad you enjoyed it, Garyy.

[@davemassie3726]

Happy New Year Doug and Fur balls! Beautiful work as always! That Silvertone looks and sounds like art, a museum piece for sure! I'd park it in the corner of the living room and leave it. The reverb sounded like space echo, to cool! You could just pick up the Sears Catalog and order that BEAUTY delivered to your House! Oh those were the Days. You are the Amp Master! Peace.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Dave......and how I mourn the loss of those times. Green stamps, black & white TV, my mother in her apron fixing dinner, and a garage band next door.

[@martinreid1740]

Great restoration. You are a true craftsman. Really nice to see your new cat looking so well.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks three times, Martin :)

[@budandbean1]

Thank you Uncle Doug, this was so wonderful watching you work on this wonderful old amplifier. I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time. It’s so great that you take such steps to save these vintage pieces of gear. Buddy

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Buddy. It's all worth it when I hear from nice viewers, like you.

[@joefordish]

i know the little amps are your happy place... but it's a real treat to see you dig into the bigger amps! another great series... can't wait for what's next!

[@UncleDoug]

You're right, Joe, and yet I really enjoyed working on this big rascal. Now I'm tending to eye the large amps too :)

[@Damaraja]

Another beauty, Uncle. Most enjoyable. Thanks for all and keep rock-n-rollin’ 🤙

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, D. Will do :)

[@MudFlap62]

Great project. Loved watching the rebuild. Looking forward to the next project.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, N&A.

[@billodonnell5377]

Great attention to detail. I really enjoy your highly instructive videos.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bill. We're glad you enjoy them :)

[@davidsigglekow1349]

One more incredible restoration under your belt sir!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, David.

[@jraimondi]

Both the Silvertone and the 350 look amazing! Love those finned aluminum valve covers.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, RCG.

[@scottgarrett744]

As me being one of the "tremolo hounds" you described out here on KZbin I was not disappointed!! I hope to see part 4 when you recover the head to match the cab. Glad to see the kitties doing well also 😁 thanks again for another great video!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Scott. You're welcome :)

[@LarryDeSilva64]

Really great restoration of the Silvertone Uncle Doug you are the best.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Larry :)

[@pcbullets8726]

Very unique sounding amp, the reverb is something else on this amp to say the least. Well done as always Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, PC. I intend to do some tinkering to tame the wild reverb :)

[@stringlocker]

Unique is a kind way of putting it.

[@bobross9648]

Good you see/hear ya !!

[@UncleDoug]

Likewise, Bob :)

[@guydeguido]

Did a double take in horror when I saw a black shape charge across the screen at 38:02. For a second I thought the original amp rat had homed and was going back to dine on fresh speaker cone and tasty wires until I realised it was Jack. There are 'rodents of unusual size' though & rats can travel! Your self-grounding jacks and footswitch grounding solution for hum after such a complex rebuild shows how many hours of thought you put into this. That's a great sounding & fine looking amp. Happy New Year UD!

[@UncleDoug]

He startled me too, Guy. God help any rat that shows up around here. If they can get past the ravenous feral cats in the back yard, Jack and KC will double-team them and dine on their tasty bits :) Thanks so much.

[@iskandertime747]

Great video, Uncle Doug, I have a soft spot for Silvertone equipment, I picture teen combos trying to figure out "Louie Louie" or "Walk, Don't Run". Hi KC,hi Jack!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Isk. I can picture that too :) The kitties say "Hi".

[@nemoes]

Unbelievable! Great Job Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mark.

[@Kilovolver]

Awesome! UD is here! Good things in KZbin take longer. Totally worth the wait! Thanks for the video UD!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, K :)

[@edwardhannigan6324]

So much work Doug to get to this point..I must say, it's just a thing of beauty. Great job, and it could only have got to this stage with your expertise..Great videos, and so much info..Top job..Ed..U.K..😀

[@UncleDoug]

Wow.....thanks, Ed. We really appreciate your kind comments.

[@edwardhannigan6324]

@@UncleDoug You're welcome Doug, look forward to more of your fab videos..Stay safe.

[@bonzo2106]

You did a fantastic job restoring this relic. I’m sure I’ll get flamed for this but…. IMHO: I would have like the addition of an effects loop.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Bonzo :)

[@ClarenceHW]

Used to have a similar Silvertone, my third amp after the Silvertone guitar/case combo and the mighty Alamo amp. Think the cabinet was 2x12 though. Same upholstery, knobs..etc. Not many things rate Epic, this restoration does. Always glad to see kitties find a loving home.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Clarence :)

[@SiliconSet]

Great video series Doug. Many thanks.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, SS :)

[@michealsmith292]

Ahhh.... Saturday morning and Uncle Doug... Great way to start the day... You have infinite patience and attention to detail, my friend... HAPPY NEW YEAR...!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Micheal. Likewise !!!

[@rickjoyner3281]

Great wrap up to this series. I don't miss my old 1485 for some of the reasons you noted. It would serve as a boat anchor quite well. I have a Polytone Mega Brute now and that is all I want to lift. Very clean amp (Polytone) with a (meh) distortion. Thanks Uncle Doug!

[@nachom1971]

"Pretty darn cavern....." has me laughing on the floor 😂. Thanks for this great series uncle. Very elegant restoration!

[@UncleDoug]

I think you must agree that it did sound pretty darned cavernous, Ignacio :) You're welcome.

[@gearheadted9210]

Really enjoyed this vid,learning about old tube amps and in particular your old school 350,looks great!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ted :)

[@abelincoln95]

Unc!! Really nice "smithing" on that old unit. I really appreciate your efforts! I used to be "WFO" but "I cant do sixty anymore" (Old song reference)!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Abe. Me too :)

[@UncleDansVintageVinyl]

Oh, man. I love that amp! What a great series here!

[@brunogallichand2444]

Hello Uncle Doug, great work, craftsmanship, and engineering analysis. The engine restoration is quite amazing, hope we'll get to see it plugged up and fired up! If you could show how you tune and perform the timing adjustment on it, it would be nice! I truly appreciate your videos, as always. Be well!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bruno. The initial timing must be set by distributor rotation, as usual, but the advance curve is established by the MSD module (not by vacuum advance). I'll keep your request in mind.

[@gardengnome4208]

Hello there Uncle Doug! This comment is completely video unrelated but I just wanted to say thank you for the knowledge in tube amp technology you have given me, I just finished making my homemade tube amp using an ecl82 and it works great! seriously, thank you!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, GG. We're glad the videos were helpful.

[@gardengnome4208]

Uncle Doug, there is one issue though, when I hookup the amp to a computer (computer audio output to the grid of the triode, resistors included) the amp furiously buzzes, it never does this when hooked up to a stereo or a cassette deck and i've tried connecting both devices to the same outlet to eliminate any ground difference. Any advice would be helpful

[@UncleDoug]

Are you using a properly shielded and grounded cord? Unless you have an oscilloscope to assist in locating the source and nature of the buzz, you'll have to do some experimenting. Good luck.

[@gardengnome4208]

I do use a shielded and grounded cord for making audio connections to the amp of any kind, and the shield in the cord is grounded only on one side to prevent a ground loop situation. I will try in some way to resolve the situation

[@gardengnome4208]

Hello again Uncle Doug, can you tell me what purpose is served by a wire in series with a resistor from the cathode of the triode to one of the wires of the audio transformer? Does it cause negative feedback, if so how does it affect the sound. I've seen it in many schematics

[@pyroman6000]

That was an excellent lurid expose! The amp sounds great- makes me wish I had a nice old vintage amp...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Pyro. Check your local Craigslist, yard sales, etc.

[@theirishhammer9451]

I had this amp and gave it to a friend that needed a amp

[@UncleDoug]

I need it worse, IH. Can you get it back from your friend ?

[@erlowther]

Wow, that amp sounds killer. Love the detail on the hum and reverb repairs. Very much appreciate the whole series on this one. Thank you! Ernest in Lexington, KY

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Ernest.

[@SciPunk215]

Great work Uncle Doug !!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, SP.

[@johnmccabe7645]

what an incredible restoration! I really love the tolex replacement Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, John :)

[@robertcalkjr.8325]

Amazing work, Doug! Thanks!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Robert.

[@Mark-ry3ij]

i love the workmanship! thanks for the videos!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Mark.

[@JoelzombieThomas]

Always the best possible imaginable work, Doug. I anticipated this video installment for a long time. And I savor the anticipation I have for the unveiling of the almighty National Aztec 2-tone amp cover.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Joel. This video was a bit long, but there will be plenty of room in a future video. Meanwhile, thanks again for the very nice Aztec amp cover.

[@JoelzombieThomas]

@@UncleDoug But of course! I informed my lovely partner of your Chevy 350 outro in our rendezvous tonight. Always love the quality content and correspondence with you.

[@UncleDoug]

Likewise, Joel. We enjoy your comments and input.

[@MrBrymstond]

@Uncle Doug Yet another museum piece and the engine is looking great.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mr. B :)

[@mike60510]

Great to watch your troubleshooting techniques.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mike.

[@hubbsllc]

Great to see this amp come to life. Very intrigued by cabs with more than four speakers; when I was a kid the guitarist in the band my brother played piano in had a Kasino *combo amp* with *eight* 10" loudspeakers inside. Those things could be augmented by two four-10s-in-a-line column speakers and I think they came with solid-state amps of 100, 200, and 300 watts. Don't know how pleasing they would sound but volume-wise I think with one of those 16x10" rigs you'd be ready to play for the Who.

[@UncleDoug]

I think the Kasino was Kustom's P.A. amp brand, Hub, thus the ungodly number of speakers. They probably were suited for stadium use.

[@hubbsllc]

@@UncleDoug Correct - Kustom made guitar and bass amps and PAs (with the column speaker cabs) under the Kasino brand. They probably used some of the same circuits and chassis for both lines but the Kustom amps had something more like regular Tolex instead of the naugahyde tuck/roll covering.

[@zurdoremi]

the Acoustic Control Corp. model 370 amplifier of the 1970's had a 6 speaker cabinet too. It was one of the best amplifiers I ever had. Had a lot of power.

[@UncleDoug]

I've never heard of the brand, Z, but trust your high regard for it.

[@zurdoremi]

@@UncleDoug they went by Acoustic, made by Acoustic Control Corp. Some really powerful amps of the day, solid state, and very elegant designs too. Used by famous bands like Led Zeppelyn, which later went Marshall.

[@rciancia]

Superb job Doug as always !!! LOVE IT - Very impressed with your playing as well... a good 1970's collage , perfect for that amp. - Ron

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Ron. The four-tune medley was courtesy of Jack and Ollie :)

[@donchapman2777]

Good job, Uncle Doug. I will use shorting 1/4 input jacks on Ch.2 and shield the foot switch input.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks. Try it and see if it doesn't help, Don.

[@Ideal1980]

Thanks, Uncle Doug. I really enjoyed the videos.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Ideal.

[@SkyscraperGuitars]

WFO!! LOL. I haven't heard that one before. What a great restoration!!! Thanks as always for sharing your insight as you work through all the issues and decisions you face during these adventures.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, SS. It used to be a popular term and is long overdue for a revival :) You're welcome.

[@billodonnell5377]

Amazing restoration!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bill :)

[@marklange8894]

Well, once again you have pulled off the impossible and made it look easy. the re-cone job on the speakers was masterfully done, thank goodness the previous tenants of the Silvertone highrise rodent condo didn't leave you any yellow rust in the coil gap of the magnet. On the reverb tank, that appeared to be a huge diameter spring. It is no wonder that it needs a thread in the center to dampen it's travel. The image of a giant soggy rotini noodle came to mind during one of the shots of the failed attempt at repair by someone else (with Scotch tape, snicker snicker, seen that before in some really unusual places). I am a great proponent of using what you've got but, at the very least they could have taped over a piece of cardstock paper, not just a layer of the thinnest tape on the planet. The Piezoelectric effect is just amazing, a couple of conductors, a quartz crystal and a little earth magic happens. (Side note: the piezoelectric electric effect has been put forth as a possible explanation of the famous ”Marfa Lights”. The theory is that the uneven cooling of the quartz laden rock strata of the mountains causes plasma or coronal discharges into the atmosphere. Never been proven though. Many physics students from all over have tried to figure it out but as far as I am aware no definitive, universally accepted explanation has been published.) Casey looks like a totally different animal, well fed, beautiful winter coat, just gorgeous. You and the Mrs deserve the highest praise for what you have done for that poor neglected kitty. Back to the amp, since I wandered off topic (imagine that), the use of the stereo quarter-inch jack to handle the series/parallel speaker arrangement was an inspiration. Also having one end fastened to a screw terminal block will prevent some future person from substituting a mono patch cord if jacks had been used at both ends. A mono cord would be pretty hard on one of the output transformers, I wonder if something along that line happened to the missing output transformer? Perhaps an attempt to wire around rodent damage speakers and getting the polarity wrong, makes me wonder. Another side note; according to ”Ma Bell” the plug consists of Tip, Sleeve, and Ring, the ring always being the lowest impedance or ground. (So as not to shock the switchboard operator. More useless trivia to clutter up your brain, why should I be the only one?) Now on to the 350, did you check the timing chain? I seem to remember those could be bad about stretching and GM experimented with a nylon cam sprocket at one time which in my opinion, was lunacy. No doubt a bean counter decision. Well, sir, you have taken an amplifier that was at the verge of a trip to the landfill and brought it back to better than new condition. I personally vote for leaving the original Tolex covering, sort of like your International pickup, a little plain on the outside, but a beast underneath. This was a truly inspiring project, masterfully done. My hat is off to you Sir, (exposing my sparsely populated head of hair). Extremely well done! As always. I look forward to your next video with great anticipation.

[@UncleDoug]

Good grief, Mark. Reading your comments is like reading a good novel.....all sorts of interesting detail and clarity of vision. Thanks so much for all your observations and input. Your Marfa Lights comments hit home since the site is relatively close by and a subject of interest. A piezo cause would answer a lot of questions. I am trusting that the timing chain is OK, due to the relatively low mileage on the engine.....naive, but expedient :)

[@marklange8894]

Best of luck with the 350. If memory serves when you fire it up, if the timing chain is sloppy it will lope at idle like it has a full race cam until it warms up. Unless it is extremely sloppy then you can hear it slapping the guides (if there are any, depends on the year model). I love the valve covers and the old school crankcase breather. Reminds me of the 327 I had, 7 fin cast aluminum Corvette valve covers, no PCV or oil filler cap either. gives the engine a really clean look like yours. Well, I gotta dash I am off to Crowell TX today to repair the prototype unit of a 900 MHz spread spectrum wireless water well control system that I designed, built and installed in 2003. (The first of 25 systems I installed over the years) It is on two different ranches with the ground storage tank 25 miles from the well. It just quit working after 15 years. Oh well, I told the customer that I would stand behind it and maintain it as long as I was able, and I am still able. Don't look forward the two and a half hour drive just to get to Crowell, then another 25 miles to the well, mostly pavement, then 25 miles of dirt road to the ground storage tank. Then about three hours back home. Have a great week!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mark. Best of luck with your repair odyssey.

[@jopestv1063]

such a cool restoration...Jack Black might be knockin' at your door for this beauty

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jope. If he does, I hope he brings some beer and steaks :)

[@jopestv1063]

Years ago my ex-bro in law had one of these beauties with a plastic Kay guitar. What a glorious noise they made!

[@UncleDoug]

I'll bet they did, Jope :)

[@milehigheffects]

You mean Jack White? lol

[@swinehorde9118]

What an undertaking! Well done resuscitating that old snarler, Uncle Doug! Any hope for a close mic'd demo with the gain wide open on CH01?

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, SH. Some day I may invest in better audio gear, but for now I'm afraid we're stuck with the camera mike.

[@scott729]

Very nice Uncle Doug, a pleasure as always

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Scott :)

[@BillyBongwaters]

Great idea with the Terminal strip

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, BB. It seemed like a really good way to make the speaker cable easy to replace.

[@BillyBongwaters]

@@UncleDoug Yes and from keeping People Yanking the terminals from the speakers and wondering why the amp is silent... Fantastic Job as per usual

[@JamesMcCutcheon]

Thank you Uncle Doug. I have a very nice condition 1485. I have not played it much, I notice on channel 2 the new 6L6 GC tubes want to red plate a little. So I will use all the valuable information so this amplifier will play another 60 years. Everything is original including the roller chassis and footswitch. This concern I have is that with the Higher Line Voltages in 2019 that the modification you recommended will let this amp be preserved for decades to come.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, James. Good luck with the modification. Reducing the plate voltage with a ballast resistor and then installing (and properly adjusting) a bias pot should help the old jewel.

[@russnixon6020]

Uncle Doug, I want to thank you for your tips on variable resistor repair. I have a 1966 Mosrite Combo model guitar that I've had since I took it down off the wall of the music store in 1966, The tone and volume pots were frozen so I replaced them with new 250K ohm, audio taper units. Of course, it is now not "all original". Yesterday, I disassembled each pot and cleaned and lubed the shafts with Liqui-moly, reassembled and tested them. The are ~ 500K. The guitar sounds fine with the 250s but one of these days, probably at the next string change, I'll reinstall the originals. Now I'm looking for an amp. I'm trying to find a broken vintage Fender to fix, again using your videos as instructional inspiration. By way of background, I'm an Amateur Extra radio operator and I built speakers for Stu Hegeman way back in the day so electronics and speaker repair don't faze me at all.

[@UncleDoug]

You're quite welcome, Russ. It's great to hear of your successful pot repair. I've always been a fan of restoration rather than replacement, when it comes to vintage parts. Good luck with your quest for a vintage Fender amp in need of repair.

[@kkrekula]

Awesome work Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks. Glad you liked it, Ken :)

[@tomk1tl]

Happy New Year and a belated Christmas greeting. Sure glad that KC is doing A-OK. Glad to see your videos !

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Tom :)

[@kevinwilkins9926]

Nice work on the amp and engine both. You are a great craftsman.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Kevin :)

[@bullthrush]

Beautiful restoration! As always, great tips along the way. The 350 is looking sharp.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Andrew :)