Silvertone 1485, Part 1: A Diamond in the Rough

This video series features the cosmetic and electronic restoration of a very rough Silvertone 1485 amplifier. Hopefully, you will be impressed by the dramatic transformation.
In Part 1, the head is dissected, stripped of it's hideous padded Naugahyde cover to reveal near-pristine original Tolex, the internal rats' nest is removed, and the components and metal surfaces are cleaned and polished. The reverb tank is disassembled, knobs are detailed, and broken joints in the cabinet are repaired.
There is an update on KC, the little orphan feral cat, and at the end, we begin a series on transforming a greasy, filthy Chevrolet 350 into a really nice hot rod engine.
If you enjoy advertising-free videos like this, please subscribe and consider becoming a Patreon patron at: / uncledougsvintageamps or making a PayPal donation to: [e-mail]. Thanks for watching !!

[@elimpulsodeshatov5997]

Cats and vintage amps, you won my heart. Hug from Argentina.

[@UncleDoug]

They go together well, ES.

[@Silent-Lucidity]

My favorite part of buying something old and dingy is cleaning it up. The outcome is so rewarding! Great job!

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, indeed :)

[@ralphups7782]

Oh and PS PS, the new found cat is looking much better than before. I think jack and your other grey cat has found her a duty to protect the house which I see she is most honoured and happy to do .

[@UncleDoug]

Thaks, Ralph. Her entire appearance and disposition have changed for the better. We're very happy :)

[@jimviau327]

I Doug, I am French speaking and I can assure you, your English is definitely educational, to say the least. It's one thing to read English and listen to professional speakers, but your rich and hilarious vocabulary coupled with your funny expressions make my English getting richer at every video. Thumbs Up to you. I enjoy each and every one of your video, both technically and culturally.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks so much, Jim. I'm flattered. If you keep using me as an English source, you're going to end up sounding like a West Texas, beer-guzzling, hot rod nut.....which could be worse......I guess ;)

[@skycarl]

That Silvertone is going to be a real treasure. Haven't seen one of those in a long time. And that one is a beast. The engine series should prove very enjoyable to us who have overhauled engines and educational to those who have not. Winner winner as they say. Little Casey's looking great.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks three times, Carl :)

[@johnwillis7965]

Those. Ole baby's were. Actually nice

[@ralphrounds709]

The 350 made me nostalgic for my old career as an automotive machinist. I must have built hundreds of those.

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad it brought back some fond memories, Ralph.

[@kenhancock8931]

Thx uncle doug n jack. hope you have a great day!! hope u had a great thanks giving. hope christmas is even better!! thank you for the love n rescue and home for her. I say 68 staple's. seem to be very??????? what OH NO A CLIFF HANGER!! lol

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Ken. Likewise on on the well wishes. You better hope you don't win......that Naugahyde is biohazard :)

[@geemac7267]

You certainly never shrink from a challenge, Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

I probably would, but once I go public with a project, I'm pretty well doomed to complete it :)

[@oatmonster]

The long awaited Uncle Doug face reveal.

[@UncleDoug]

You asked for it.......you got it :)

[@meesterprofe007]

I am so happy to now witness the restoration of a horrid 1485 silver tone head. Your comments while working on the amp had me laughing quite hard. Your humor and finesse at you art makes you so unique and beloved as a mentor. And the Chevy engine rebuild!! And rescuing animals....thank you for your kindness and teachings

[@kevinwilkins9926]

lol. I been thinking the same thing.

[@YeeThirty]

His face is out there in a few videos.. you just gotta be a real fanboy and do your digging to find it :p

[@erlowther]

Doug, you also showed a quick aerial shot of yourself whilst flying your drone plane in another vid. With a hint of disguise of course (donning your aviation sunglasses and ball cap) Breaking Bad’s Heisenberg true identity was finally revealed! :) Love the 1485 video thus far. Thanks for the dry humor, it’s working for you... Ernest in Lexington, KY...

[@peterjames2580]

My brother and I had two Silvertone's amps in the 60's with our bands. We were poor and always wanted Fender's. Wish we still had the old Silvertones. Thanks so much for the vid.

[@UncleDoug]

A lot of us lusted for Fenders but ended up with less, Peter......and to be honest, less was often more than good enough :)

[@michaelmasin1996]

this might be the best episode of Uncle Doug yet... it only lacked russian pole dancers

[@UncleDoug]

They showed up for a performance, but didn't make the cut, Michael. I thought it best to stick with the rat urine motif:) Thanks !!!

[@tomfrye9037]

@@UncleDoug Oh...those musta been the Russian pole dancers with connections in Moscow. Moscow,s still pissed that Trump wouldn't conspire with 'em and Hillary DID. Sadly, yer gonna have to vet all yer Russian pole dancers from now on...Probably cheaper to just stick with the rodent urine thing.

[@UncleDoug]

I apply a dab of rat urine on my lips every day to prevent them from being chapped, Tom. It doesn't really help the chapping......but it sure keeps you from licking them :)

[@tomfrye9037]

@@UncleDoug Yeah, and it's "sumthin' different" for those who get tired of Carmex or Chapstick.

[@Lu_Woods]

Hehe...Uncle Doug...you made me cry with your devotion to KC. Well done sir ;)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Lu. She's the sweetest, most lovable and appreciative little girl cat I have ever seen......our Christmas present in November :)

[@CoquiAudio]

wow, the inside 12:10 look amazingly clean like it was just installed all components :)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, VM. I guess all the rat urine and feces actually protected the original finish :)

[@CoquiAudio]

xD

[@luvbomlabs]

OMG you dry humor is awesome - the mighty 1011 reverb tank - the very best :) Thanks man!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jay :)

[@apollorobb]

When uncle Doug Proclaims "THIS COULD BE ALL YOURS !!" Run away quickly lol

[@UncleDoug]

Especially when words like "rat" and "urine" are part of it.

[@goodun6081]

@@UncleDoug , Nature's Miracle works great for getting rid of urine smells. Enzyme based, available at any pet store.

[@donaldfilbert4832]

OMG !! What a magician !! I can't imagine how you got all those minute surfaces of those pots clean !! That must have taken you hours !! I salute your patience !!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Donald. I was overwhelmed at first, but eventually, things started to get spruced up.....and this encouraged more scrubbing and polishing :)

[@redjetfirebird]

Cool score. I gotta say, lunch with Uncle Doug would be very cool. If ever in Atlanta, lunch and beers are on me!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, RJ. I will definitely keep your offer in mind :)

[@audiotechlabs4650]

redjetfirebird I think Uncle Doug is in Texas. Near El Paso. Thanxz

[@murattaner7384]

ı asked him to get in touch with me whenever he is around Istanbul and he said sure well have a couple of pints of rakı (a local favorite 45 % alcoholl !!! ) :))

[@goodun6081]

@@murattaner7384 , i drank raki in Greece. That and slivovitz are the closest thing to liquid fire that I have tasted.

[@murattaner7384]

you know traditionaly rakı was consumed straight. cold but with no ice in very small glasses . each small sip to be followed by a large gulp of cold water as chaser... that way you don't get drunk. cause with each sip you can figure out just how much water you need to keep you just in that state of rakı highness :))) when brits invaded Istanbul after ww 1 brit soldiers found it too harsh for their taste and mixed it with water.. now almost every rakı drinking turk do the same... (and they get drunk ! in a big way!!! :))

[@McSynth]

Uncle Doug, your knowledge base is astounding !

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, McO. I'm an amateur compared so some of our viewers :)

[@raycochrane3971]

I'm a relative new viewer/subscriber. I pointed in this channels direction by a couple of valve amp fans. they said this channel was better than all of the pedal/guitar/gear demo channels combined. I've seen a dozen or so Uncle Doug videos and have to agree this is the best gear channel made even more so by the attitude to animals displayed by the man and his UTub community.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much and welcome to our channel, Ray. I think you'll find our "little family" of about 56K folks from all over the world to be the nicest, kindest, and most knowledgeable bunch of viewers in the universe. I think/hope you'll really like it here.

[@SharkoonBln]

Welcome to our little family ray :)

[@dooleyfussle8634]

I'm new too and am constantly amazed by the incredible commentary.

[@TempoDrift1480]

Check out Brad the Guitologist. He's the other authority.

[@bobbarcus8310]

UD is the BEST I have learned a lot and I am dumb

[@mkreple]

UD!!! This should've been on The Discovery Channel! Killer video! Thank you!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Michael. Thanks !!

[@jeffmitchell9214]

Hey, we missed you lately. Super video today. That little girl of yours is so precious. Give her a rub for me. 96 staples, as in the song, "96 Tears". Please don't send that filthy crap to me if I win. A few autographed staples will do . Happy Christmas !

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Julia. A deal is a deal. You win !!! ........and the wonderful prizes are on their way as we speak :)

[@Angelum_Band]

13:18 Prophetic words. Dude I love your work and how present matters.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, AB :)

[@TheGuitologist]

This is the Jack White model. It's a soughtafter amp.

Brad Since Sears makes nothing,who made this? Ampeg?

[@justincarrasco3680]

Doug-tologist collab please!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, guys. It was originally built by Danelectro for Sears. As you will see in the speaker cabinet, the infamous Danelectro Masonite is used as the (weak, warped) speaker baffle. Regardless, I hope Jack shows up with some cash when it's done :)

[@Fixologist1]

@@UncleDoug Yep, Danelectro for the win! This 1485 and the 1484 are rock and roll FIREBREATHERS. Crank them up and they'll give any Marshall a run for its money in the crunch zone.

[@patmckenna9887]

The 1483 was originally a bass amp but it didn’t take long for everyone to figure out that it sounded great with a guitar running through it, it is a lower watt amp, advertised at 18w but really more like 23w sounds great clean or dirty.

[@daveb9370]

What a beautiful kitty. Rescues are the best. We have a stray that showed up 1.5 years ago. He is awesome. He looks like Jack - all black, but the tip of his long tail is pure white. He talks alot so I named him Mr Meowgi. Great amp too!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Dave. Jack and KC send their regards to the vociferous Mr. M :)

[@scarakus]

Yea those red switches will blast you sometimes, depending on the ground fault.

[@UncleDoug]

So they were a "safety" feature :)

[@scarakus]

@@UncleDoug Absolutely.

[@krz8888888]

Looks great from afar but man oh man oh man, what a diamond in the rough! Glad it ended up in caring hands! Thanks for the video.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Alex.

[@georgeallison6228]

I hope Johan Segeborn don't see this jewel...he will want to compare it to a plexi! LOL

[@UncleDoug]

The Plexi would probably win, George. The Silvertone circuit is a hodge-podge of cost-savings and peculiar design.

[@mikequenzer9100]

your dry humor just makes my night!!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, Mike :)

[@normjacques6853]

In listening to your description of the unclassified biomatter that was so liberally applied to the inside of that head, I found that it is, indeed, possible to pass (outward!) a rather large sip of Tim Horton's coffee through sinuses and nasal passages without noticeable ill effect....other than the resulting disgusting mess!! Why you only have 56K subscribers is completely beyond me! :-)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Norm. I understand that caffeine is good for the sinuses :)

[@whoolph]

Boy, that chassis cleaned up nicely! . . . . . I know this is an older video, I'm late to the party . . . . thanks for sharing . . . Rog

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, W.......glad you enjoyed it.

[@thats2kewl]

I was already grossed out by the droppings, but your suggestion of picking out the good stuff really put me over the edge 😲...HOW on Earth did that pass Jack's "cat scan"...is he slipping (or sleeping)? LOL. I "was" going to guess 55 staples but, in response to the "prize," I guess Zero!! In all seriousness, what a magnificent resurrection of a nearly unsalvageable gem. Did you use windex on the panel/back of the pots too...or Deoxit? Can't wait for the next, spine-tingling episode... same Bat-time, same Bat-channel.

[@UncleDoug]

Thankfully my gag reflex is suppressed a bit from working in a hospital for 18 years. Thanks so much for your nice comments, T2K. I used only Windex on all the cosmetics, but will use DeOxit on the pots and tube sockets.

[@JamesMcCutcheon]

I have this Amplifier and all of this Series from the 1960's. My First amp age 13 was the 1484 2x12. 40 watts. These amplifiers restore well. The weird reverb is cool and should be appreciated. Thanks for the showing. I have a 1 owner with the original dolly that attaches to the bottom.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, that sounds like quite a collection, James. I have since acquired two 1484's that will have to be restored. You're welcome.

[@iskandertime747]

Oops! Uncle Doug is back. (Closes tab of Russian pole dancers).

[@UncleDoug]

Give Anastasia my regards :)

[@hugomejia593]

Nice to meet you Doug after some hundred videos finally I see your face almost I think. Amazing challenge to give a second chance to that beautiful amp you are a genius I love Old things I believe are better than Fender from today congratulations appreciate share us with us nice restoration job

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Hugo :)

[@mspysu79]

Boy, that amp was rough at the beginning, It is so good that Nauga gave it's life to protect the Tolex :) Do we know who made the amp, it kind of looks like Warwick construction from some of the Silvertone Radios and TV's I have seen. Nice to hear a good report on the kitty and that she is putting on weight and getting all kinds of love and attention. That 350 is going to be a nice project, they are rather durable engines.

[@UncleDoug]

The amp and cab were built by Danelectro, M79. As you'll see in the speaker cab, their use of Masonite gives them away. KC sends you her best :)

[@steveone]

Could have watched another couple of hours of this . Hurry back Uncle Doug !

[@UncleDoug]

I'm working on Part 2, Steve. It's proving to be an uphill battle, but we're winning.

[@Slugg-O]

Old amps, a cat rescue update and now small block hot rod engines. Throw in some Russian pole dancers and this video series will break KZbin.

[@UncleDoug]

My agent is in negotiations with Anastasia to appear in a future video, Randy, so stay tuned ;)

[@Slugg-O]

@@UncleDoug Oh be still my heart.

[@lumpyguitar5169]

Mr Doug....I had the Silvertone Danelectro with amp in the case. Traded for the 1485. But I believe it had 2 X 12" cabinet. Traded it for an Ampeg 25 watt 1x12" that could carry on my bike when necessary. Thank you for reviving these great relics and my memories.

[@UncleDoug]

The model with the 2 x 12" was probably a 1484, JW. Having lugged this monster around, I can see why you traded.

[@lumpyguitar5169]

2 Staples.....just 2(two). I lose......thank the Lord.

[@UncleDoug]

No, you win, JW. Congratulations !!!

[@russellhltn1396]

Everyone else guessed high, you were the only one that was under - so you win!

[@tomfoolery2082]

Had 1 of these amps in high school ,, thats the original covering alright , boy this brings back memories .

[@UncleDoug]

Lots of viewers feel the same, Glenn. Silvertones are really dear to the hearts of many :)

[@markmcqueen1882]

Now I'm worried about the speaker cab. Might it be a 6 unit rat condo? Do they like to eat speaker cones? The suspense is killing me. :D

[@UncleDoug]

I took it apart today, Mark, and you have good reason to worry. The lower 3 speakers all sustained water damage and will probably have to be reconed :(

[@markmcqueen1882]

@@UncleDoug Ugg...that's a bummer. Well, I know you can do it. We've seen the video. ;) Hopefully it will work out well.

[@UncleDoug]

Pray for me, Mark :)

[@markmcqueen1882]

@@UncleDoug Done. I can only imagine the problems you could run into. Water, paper, wood, and steel don't "get along" with each other very well. :/

[@jimdawes7261]

Spoiler alert!!!

[@alexwoolridge94aw]

Damn you spent some time cleaning that up. Your efforts are evident.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Alex. I guess the OCD helps in cases like this :)

[@UncleTadhg]

Mixed feelings about the Uncle Doug face reveal, but at least it wasn't a full reveal! I think he needs to stay like Wilson from Home Improvement or Judge Dredd...

[@UncleDoug]

Don't feel conflicted, Tadhg. I hired an old geezer to stand in for me. My true identity remains a mystery :)

[@jackpijjin4088]

"Heidi-ho, neighbor! I AM THE LAW!" What a magical combination!

[@felkikid]

Man when you got completely inside the chassis and exposed the circuit I was sitting here with my jaw on the floor. Not only is it beautiful considering the rat mess outside it, but its just in better condition than any other ive seen here. Ive always wanted to play a real silver tone 1845 with that crazy tremolo circuit but man this is such a great find

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Nathan. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@jameslucas6589]

Back when Sears sold items worth buying. This subject can send me to the moon without a BFR. Take a perfectly good company, reduce it to nothing, then invest in auto insurance,real estate brokerage, credit cards, and get rid of the one thing that made it great for 100 years, it’s catalog ( when catalog sales are at the highest) make sure the loser CEO gets a great salary with a great parachute then flounder til it’s picked up by the nations number one dollar store, Kmart, and then call it off. Not even the name is worth anything. Divest the one name , Craftsman, to another now losing company which has marched to the same tune and is to soon follow. Gawd!!! Good companies thrive while Sears, who prided itself in selling garbage for the past forty years is now on brain dead life support. What a waste. No one seems to be concerned as it is seldom spoke of. Want America Great? Stop making China great. GM is about to make them greater. Get rid of jobs, collapse small town municipal Tax bases and make sure no money flows into those towns. Poor management, poor forward thinking. GM is 5-10 years behind on every forward thinking reason to own a GM product. May be if they had asked their teenage children about what they would like in cars they might have seen. But I am sure that GM would have bucked and claimed it was cost prohibitive to install LEDs in the dash or USB ports in the dash or provide a cellular data port for on the road use. Idiots. Pure and simple, idiots with a capitaI I at the helm. But why care? They have their fat salary, the USA keeps them from bankruptcy and they close plants. Actually, we are the idiots. Keep China Great!!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're preaching to the choir, James. Amen to your comments.

[@bucyruserie1211]

I got one for my 10th birthday...1978..110 Model, I still have it albeit with a new blade which they replaced for free twice in all these years..

[@jameslucas6589]

guitarsurfer2010 I remember the very same thing. We had a B&W cabinet tv which actually was nice enough to be a piece of furniture. I remember as you around age 8-9 watching the repair man with his tube tote put our tv back in order. Doctors took note of the take everything to the shop yourself trend and stopped with the house calls. The milk man was the last holdout on customer comes first treatment but during the early 70s they finally caved in and told us all we were not worth customer service and sacked all the milk men. No more quart of milk eggs and OJ. Idiots. Then, because we were duped into “low prices” ( lmao) We were given the choice to pump gas ourselves or have our windshields washed and oil checked along with tires, or..... get .05/gallon less. Hmm what did stupid Americans choose????? Well to verify just how well that idea worked, there are no service stations. We have mini marts and gas. We are idiots. Thankfully New Jersey never fell for that. Guess what? There is no price difference between Delaware and New Jersey. Hmmm Duped again and there is no going back. Our moms didn’t work but now they have to work! Mainly because of debt and self protection as my daughters will tell you, because the dead beat fathers prefer they work. They might leave their responsibilities at a drop of the hat. Take care I appreciate your comments.

[@dhh488]

They need to keep the investors happy, customers don't matter. But when customers disappear, the company soon follows. American Business guru's can't seem to understand this simple concept.

[@rogerjudy1]

you are absolutely correct where is the pride of americans the greatest manufacturing country in the world makes me sick to my stomach the sell out we are seeing at the hands of greeted companys and gov. what a waste we will pay ,but who cares as long as the rich gets richer so sad for our children or grandchildren

[@michaelogden5958]

Uncle Doug, you successfully lured me in the tube amp world, but it's very unlikely that I will follow you into the old car realm. I wrenched on stuff, mainly old tractors and worn-out pickups as I was growing up. I suppose I was reasonably good at it, but I never developed a taste for it. That's probably because nearly all of the work was done when something was absolutely broken and had been abused on top of that. So I will help you along vicariously. :-)

[@UncleDoug]

I understand, Michael. We are glad to have you along for the tube amps now, and maybe cars later ;)

[@axdmlm]

I can't wait to see the finished products. Both the amp and the engine.

[@UncleDoug]

I hope I live long enough to get them both finished, Mike :)

[@SciPunk215]

Thanks Uncle Doug. This amp will have another long life in front of it.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, SP. I just hope I can get it to work:)

[@douglasbaum1846]

Thanks for this video, especially because I have a silvertone 1484 that could use a little cleaning up. No bio hazardous issues, but as usual I learned something valuable from you. Thanks again.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Douglas :)

[@0richbike]

Amps and engines. Doesn't get any better! Had some success with sections of bass strings for poking out water galleries.

[@UncleDoug]

They go together like rats and nuts :)

[@DavidEvansMusic]

Uncle Dpug, thanks so much for this video (can't wait for part 2), the restoration of especially mechanical things is one on my favorite interests. I do the same to vintage guitars, and just love your work. The fact that you have started to cover doing it with engines is awesome! Love to see some entire car/truck restorations in the future. Love the old amps, keep it coming!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, David. My inclusion of old, restored trucks went over so well in some previous videos that I thought I'd take a chance on what actually went into restoring them. Thanks !!!

[@DavidEvansMusic]

can't wait!

[@vmat1000]

btw,,,some love for Chev 350s. '72 C10 Stepside was part of the family from '85 to '12. still ran and drove until tire rot (275r 60-15 on slot mags) set in with a worn water pump and a repaving project got underway. gave Ol' faithful away in memory of my MIL.

[@UncleDoug]

They are the most common "hot rod" engine for a good reason, GM :)

[@berniken6511]

You are doing a great job on the Silvertone Doug and your kitty is coming along really well, she is very lucky to have found you.........................................Berni

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks. Berni. By the same token, she has brought a lot of happiness to us just by being here :)

[@ronaldanderson9263]

Oh my. When I was just a kid of 7 years old I used to gawk lustfully at this amp in the Sears Christmas Wish Book.

[@UncleDoug]

I guess our old age is just a time to acquire all the things we missed out on as kids :)

[@multicyclist]

Wow! I had one of these in my youth in Southern California and it was stolen back in the late 70's. They are probably very rare since I have never seen another one until now. It really brings back memories and yes it did play well and loud. These were made with a hard gray textured vinyl surface. Someone has recovered it with ugly padded vinyl.

[@UncleDoug]

If you watch the video, MC, the ugly padded vinyl is removed to reveal ........watch it and see :)

[@multicyclist]

Yes I see it now and the case is still in good condition! Brings back memories. You are doing a beautiful job restoring it!. Mine looked liked that one except it was still in like new condition when it was stolen. It was one of only a few gifts I ever received from my Dad who is since passed away. So probably why I never stopped missing it. It was really nice to at least see one again. Thank you!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, MC. It's a shame that a present from your father was stolen. Some losses are particularly painful.

[@dhix2388]

Amazing. your patience and your knowledge is fun to watch. looking foward to the other series on this amp. thanks for your time.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, DH. Thanks :)

[@lonfahs1612]

I bought one of these USED back in 1969. I paid $55, a lot of money for a 14 year old kid (I had a paper route). A single 15" speaker, It was bass amp that I used for guitar, and that thing was AWESOME. I wish I still had it.

[@UncleDoug]

Silvertone must have sold a ton of amps, Lon. Just about everybody has owned one at some time or another.

[@jensenbell]

I am totally confident that this restoration will result in a Sears Silvertone Amp more functional and better sounding that any that ever came out of the Dano factory. - also at 16:00... watching this - I have to thank you because it was clear that someone was cuttin' onions somewhere near me. Thanks for that help. ;;snif;; - Also: I have a great story about Leo Fender opening up a Silvertone in 1963. From the guy who bought it for gig. It's hilarious with a happy ending... I'll tell you when we meet for coffee in Texas one of these days.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your confidence and support, Jensen. Getting to meet KC has been a very rewarding experience, hopefully for all of us :) I can't wait to hear the story......but maybe over beers instead of coffee ;)

[@DennisMurphey]

Great project, very encouraging to consider Silverstone for hobby project.

[@UncleDoug]

They are relatively common and inexpensive, Dennis, i.e. a very good project.

[@Tomater768]

One of these was the first amp I ever worked on! Also the first time I discharged a large capacitor through my body (at 21!) Learned some valuable electronic lessons!

[@UncleDoug]

That's one lesson that sticks with you Thomas......if you survive :)

[@RobertWGreaves]

I had one of those back in the 60’s. Loved it.

[@UncleDoug]

A surprising number of viewers share your love for the old Silvertones, Bob.

[@TheRoiderien]

That spring reverb may well not be dead--piezo elements look like capacitors from an electronics point of view. In any case, the reverb tank is very crude. Note that it relies on longitudinal waves, which can be easily excited from external vibrations. The Accutronics reverbs create a twist in the reverb spring, which is much less susceptible to mechanical noise. Also, thanks again for taking that stray kitty under your wing and giving her a second chance. Please keep us updated on her progress--she seems like a sweet thing, which is remarkable given her hard times.

[@UncleDoug]

I hope you're right, R, and agree with your assessment re longitudinal vs rotational signal propagation. KC is a real sweet, gentle soul. I'm really glad she finally found us.

[@timconnor1775]

Uncle Doug, you're the best!! Enjoying your videos and managing to learn a few things too!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Tim :)

[@JohnSmith-cw2wd]

Uncle Doug, I am glad you are aware of the Hanta virus risk, Cheers

[@UncleDoug]

I'm aware of it.....I just hope I don't catch it :)

[@davoid88]

So glad to see this video! I have a 1485 I've been working on I had to built a combo cabinet for it. it was in a poorly built homemade one when I got it. My power section is good, but the preamp is a mes. can't wait for part 2! Thank you so much for all your videos.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Davy. I hope the video is helpful.

[@jspanos500]

Love this! I have a 1484 with the original cab. They are freak out the squares, garage rock tone machines.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, JS. That's what I hear about them.....and what I expect :)

[@jamessurface9100]

I almost lost hope. Too many sleepless nights. Waiting for an Uncle Doug video! I had nightmares and woke up in cold sweats. I thought he would never come back then I saw it, a new posting from Uncle Doug. Oh the happiness that came flooding into my heart. The dark days were over and I have a reason to smile again. WooHoo!! Thank You Uncle Doug!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, James. Hopefully Part 2 will be out before the nightmares return :)

[@waynejohnson6594]

Great job on the silver-toned!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Wayne.

[@SiliconSet]

Great video Doug! Many thanks!

[@freepress8451]

Your commentary has me in stitches

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Nic. We like your kitty icon :)

[@freepress8451]

@@UncleDoug Tabatha says meooow

[@thomasbaker4657]

what a gift ! and the clean up ? you'r amazing doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Thomas.

[@Kilovolver]

Stop everything you are doing: new uncle Doug video is up! Thanks!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, K......hope you like it :)

[@Kilovolver]

Uncle Doug I loved every single minute of it. It’s mesmerizing the amount and level of skill presented in your videos. Hats off and respect to you. Cheers from Prague

[@billd3692]

Love your sense of humor.......

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bill :)

[@mj-dd2fb]

Thanks Steve! Thanks Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, MJ.

[@albertomartinez2479]

This amp also came in a 2X12 configuration. The speaker cord was permanently attached.between the head and cab. Jack White has used these amps live. I had one. 1963 ish. It could ROCK!

[@UncleDoug]

The 2 x 12 version was a different model, Alberto: the 1484. Jack White uses the 1485. They both can rock quite well :)

[@mutanthifi]

Wait - what??!!! HOW???!!!! How the hell did you get it that clean without removing anything, round the pots, under the wires, how d'you paint the transformer so perfectly in situ?!?! Uncle Doug, you're a magician!!!!! Amazing

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your kind words, M....they make the difficult job worthwhile :)

[@ijamsum]

I saw these on sale at Montgomery Wards when I was a kid at 12 years old and I began playing guitar soon after !

[@UncleDoug]

Those were the days, IS :)

[@moore2522]

Ahh, that reverb unit! I had the 1484 twin 12 version as my first "big" amp and that reverb was perfect for the crash sound at the beginning of "I Had Too Much To Dream Last Night". Just give the cabinet a bit of a whack and there you were! Probably not the best thing for the tubes, but hey, 17 is the age of experimentation without thought of consequences.

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, 17 definitely was that, Robert. My parents had grey hair to prove it :) I'm anxious to see if the reverb is as bad as everyone says.....and if so, to see if it can be improved.

[@jimmurray8713]

Doug, I guess -1 staple. (I really want to lose this raffle!). Thanks for your usual meticulous craziness!

[@UncleDoug]

You win, Jim !!! Congratulations......and don't forget the paltry $250 for shipping and handling :)

[@mspguitars6740]

Uncle Doug, there is a chrome paint pen made by Molotow called ONE4ALL Liquid Chrome. It works exceptionally well to fill in the missing chrome on the edges of those knobs. Can't wait to see the next part of this restoration.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the tip, MSP. I will check it out :)

[@davewilson6324]

Congratulation Uncle Doug on your Big Daddy Ed Roth "Rat Fink" Silverstone 1485 Restoration Series! One of your very best!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Dave :)

[@rryder994]

Boy did that bring back memories, back bout 68 had a drummer in the band that had a Silvertone amp that looked like this. We used it for a PA (yeah we had lots of money back then hahaha) I was all of 16. I had an old amp my Dad had bought from a friend of his (who used to do as you repair/refurbish amps/guns, etc) I don't remember seeing a name on it, but had that circle cutaway with the 2 bars around the speaker hole, but also had a musical note across the center of those 2 bars. It worked great for what we needed back then though. I enjoy your vids. Keep 'em coming.

[@UncleDoug]

It's great to share your happy memories from the past, RR. Your Dad's old amp sounds like one of the old Oahu's by Valco....or a similar maker......which I truly love and collect. Your dad had good taste :)

[@patricknicolucci5073]

you do beautiful work uncle Doug can't wait till its done

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Patrick.

[@edwardhannigan6324]

I know I keep commenting on some of your older videos, but I'm in need of knowledge Doug. Fabulous repair and cosmetic clean up. So educational. You're lucky I don't live near you or I'd be a pain the A** around your workshop on many occasions. You would have to get the cat to chase off. Great video..Ed..U.K..😂

[@UncleDoug]

You're always welcome, Ed. Thanks so much for your nice comments.

[@drplasmodius]

Groupie ricochet. Best Uncle Doug description ever! 🤣

[@UncleDoug]

It can happen, Dr. P. I once had a pair of 52" undies hit me twice......once coming and again on the rebound.

[@etheroar6312]

50 years ago, my first "real" job was as a service tech at Sears. We pulled the knobs off by wrapping a shop rag around and behind the knobs ant then pulled. Never broke a knob, never scratched a cabinet. Thought an old dog might as well share an old trick. Bless you for your teaching.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, EO. I'll have to try that trick :)

[@Crisdapari]

The days looking for chrome reflections and drone footage has finished. A lot of us are glad to meet you Mr Uncle Doug! By the way, nasty but great and needed job (on the amp restoration obviously XD)!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, S :)

[@rickjoyner3281]

I had one of the 1485 silvertone amps in high school. The neighbors hated me and my garage band mates. This video really takes me back. Can't wait to see part 2.

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad it's bringing back some fond memories, Rick.

[@orinlowe1128]

Thanks for the laughs! Fantastic video

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Orin.

[@pcbullets8726]

Nice, you don't see a lot of these amps around. I bet it will be better than new when you are done Uncle Doug. The engine bonus will be equally great to see when it's done as well.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, PC........stay tuned :)

[@tonymanns8249]

In my youth 'growing up' in the ''60's' (I'm age 66) the Sears Silvertone amp was a blessing to all us guitar players. It was relatively inexpensive compared to a Fender amp. I had the 50 watt version with 1-15" speaker, my fellow band member had the 2-12" 50 watt version. His 2-12 amp was slightly louder than my 1-15" amp. I wanted the 2-12" version but Sears was out of stock.

[@UncleDoug]

How things change. Sears was out of stock then......and out of business now. Who would have predicted that in the '60's ? Silvertone does seem to mean a lot of a lot of people, Tony. I guess it was "the people's amp" :)

[@tonymanns8249]

Tears my heart out that my beloved Sears is in dire straights. Sears was always one of my favorite place to shop. The Sears/Kenmore name always meant quality. I have always bought Sears appliances and they have always performed well and have lasted for decades.

[@tonymanns8249]

Sears of the past was the Amazon of the present.

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, Tony. Even as a child, I would spend time in the Craftsman Tool department whenever my mother would drag me there (for her) to look at new girdles :)

[@eugeneeaton7262]

Great video I love these old Silvertones had one back in the day it had 2/12s wish I still had it!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Eugene. It may have been a 1484......they seem more popular now than they were back in the 60's.

[@jimdawes7261]

Yet another Saturday morning session of Uncle Doug coolness (and a nice cup of Joe). As a fellow cat owner I love the cat's participation in the videos and what you do to help and rescue them. I am on the edge of my seat waiting for part 2 of both the amp and engine projects. One thing......... how about a little silver paint on the outside ring of the knobs that would finish the resto and add another gazillion bucks of value (?).

[@UncleDoug]

I never dreamed that so many viewers would be concerned with the silver rings on the knobs. You guys are a bunch of perfectionists !!!! Here I am, shoveling rat feces out of a rickety, splintered amp cabinet, and all I'm nearing is "knob rings, knob rings, ......". Seriously, you're right and I will tend to the silver rings eventually. Thanks for your input :) :)

[@jimdawes7261]

Bright silver knob rings help to get the panties flying.

[@UncleDoug]

Since you put it that way, I will paint them ASAP !!! ;)

[@diabolicalartificer]

Excellent work as always and a great restoration of the cat.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, DA. That's and interesting parallel, between KC, the amp, and the old engine. I guess we simply try to make all things better :)

[@danielsaturnino5715]

Thanks Uncle Doug. And Steve for donating the amp.

[@VegasCyclingFreak]

15:22 Wow that cleaned up very nicely

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, VCF :)

[@Bbendfender]

I think I have some tube shields that you need. Can't wait to see video #2.

[@UncleDoug]

Arch, if you will contact me at [e-mail], I would love to buy them from you.

[@Bbendfender]

@@UncleDoug Will do.

[@kgsalvage6306]

I use a silver permanent marker to touch up the silver ring around plastic knobs and such. Works pretty well. You got that looking really good. You really lucked out on the covering and chassis. Very nice.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, KG. I'll check into the marker.

[@Bigjoedo66]

Another great video Uncle Doug!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Joe :)

[@jackallen6261]

Uncle Doug! Nice work! Not entering the contest though, no sir! I hope this finds you and Jack and KC now and I guess Ollie is still around...hey you have a regular cat house going on there, Rofl anyway I hope every one is doing well! Looking forward to the remaining videos in the series! Thanks as always!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Jack. Yes all the kitties are doing quite well indeed, and send their regards :)