The Nightmare on YouTube Street: Repairing a 1950's Stewart Amp

[@johnarbuthnott9209]

I want to thank you with all my heart for what you've done for me and my mine. my father inlaw had become bedridden would not watch tv nore listen to radio he was depressed untill one day he heard me watching one of your videos on how to determine what causes high and low hum .he worked as an electrician for hoffman and northrupt he knew the answers right away the very next day he asked me "john whats that guy working on today?" my jaw dropped from then on i would come home from work and we would watch one of your videos . he and i became best friends watching your videos and i cant thank you enough for that time we had together as he has recently passed again thank you so much

[@UncleDoug]

What a wonderful story, John. I really appreciate your sharing it with us. It's great to hear that our videos had a positive effect on your father-in-law's life. We all wish you the very best.

[@AMStationEngineer]

@john arbuthnott, I bow in reverence to you; adding purpose to someone's life, during their 'pre-sunset' time is not easily accomplished. I have no doubt, that "his gears were turning", providing a quite welcomed distraction, and helping him to feel a sense of normalcy, when 'life's vacuum' - did its best to summon despair.

[@UncleDoug]

@Two Sticks It did indeed. Thank you both.

[@erikjohansson1814]

Wow, one of the most touching comments I have read here ever ❤️

[@UncleDoug]

@@erikjohansson1814 Agreed, Erik. I am truly humbled by John's kind words.

[@mr.joshua657]

I'm constantly in awe of this mans knowledge, skill, talent and humor. Always great stuff, manbro!

[@UncleDoug]

You are too kind, JC......but thanks ;)

[@MrPodvig]

Trick photography.

[@oldmanofcotati]

I'm unendinglyish inspired by his guitar playing. Almost as good a Gábor István Szabó. Same tuning prowess. Just kidding Uncle Doug. Much love and appreciation from Mount Shasta, CA. I miss Rusty.

[@steveennever9905]

@@UncleDoug Pretty sure it's not British. The speaker cloth appears to be uniquely American & was used on many American amps of that era. Check out this amp on Guitarologist... kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXvIn4yCl5p9oLs

[@UncleDoug]

@@steveennever9905 Agreed, Steve. We can't blame the British for this nightmare ;)

[@davematthews414]

Don't change a thing Doug. It's great to hear you thinking out loud as you work on a project, whether that's an amp or your car and I really appreciate the dry humor too. Top bloke ;)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Dave. My wife insists that I'm just getting senile :)

[@WCM1945]

@@UncleDoug Add a two letters to "senile" and you can get "sensible". My wife has started telling me i'm not getting old, and that worries me.

[@UncleDoug]

@@WCM1945 I wish mine would do that, Bill....even if she's lying :)

[@loopinnerthe]

Heroic. To fix Rebuild Rebuild again Then let it go only when it was safe and sounded beautiful. I learnt so much from this, especially the dangers of not knowing the real details of the circuit diagram.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your poetic comments, IL :)

[@loopinnerthe]

@@UncleDoug your work transcends simple prose

[@UncleDoug]

@@loopinnerthe You are too kind, IL :)

[@TheFrozenDesert]

I sure wish there was an Uncle Doug's Amp Repair Shop T-Shirt. Thank you for the knowledge and experience so freely shared.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, FD. I keep procrastinating about creating and selling T-shirts and hats. It may well happen, though. So stay tuned.

[@tomk1tl]

@@UncleDoug A very good idea from TheFrozenDesert...I will definitely be interested in a T-shirt for sure...nice job on the amp UD !

[@UncleDoug]

@@tomk1tl Thanks, Tom :)

[@jamescfreeman2437]

@@UncleDoug I'd gladly buy some!

[@tonyduncan9852]

I now drink coffee when I listen to your editing, as I was becoming an alcoholic. This has been the very best one, in a way. Two new eight inch speakers, and your customer has a wonderful amp. I needed you in 1961 when I became a bassist for three bands simultaneously* using some mahogany, a 10 mm square steel bar, an old pickup, a Bush radio amplifier, a twelve inch speaker and a four foot concrete sewer pipe. Cheers and thanks. * Trad, pure jazz, and R&r.

[@UncleDoug]

As always, thanks for sharing, Tony :)

[@waynemarc77]

Uncle Doug , AGAIN... I wish I had a teacher like you back when I was in electronic school.Went to a school called :R.E.T.S . radio , electronic training school! I went on to help install the 1st. cell phone system in the U.S. I LOVE the vid's.. keep them coming!!

[@mattjones3795]

I went to RETS as well.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Wayne. We will :)

[@WCM1945]

Which RETS school? We had one here in Birmingham, on the north side.. I taught at its competition across town, UEI (Untied Electronics Institute). I considered moving to RETS but when I found the pay was the same I decided to stay put.

[@erin19030]

Hey, I graduated from R.E.T.S. in August of 1962, here in Philadelphia, Pa. RCA hired me the same day I graduated and placed me in the the apprentice program. When I was drafted RCA held my job until I returned from Nam. During my Army service I worked in High Frequency Radio Repair and middle guidance systems for artillery. At RCA I rose up the ladder quickly, from TV / Radio field service to Chief shop tech. In 1968 I moved into teaching until 1974 where I took a position at the RCA research center in Princeton. I worked there at various levels until 1990. Then I took a corporate position in Washington, DC and New York City. I left RCA in a massive downsizing action and was out of work for the first time in 32 years. RCA gave me a year of severance. Going back to school for computing was my next move. The last ten years of my work life I taught college level physics and electronics. In my retirement years I restore vintage electronics equipment and home items like Radio, Tv, computers and test equipment. My technical school education took me a long way in life. I was never college level materials thanks to my high school education program ,teachers and guidance counselor . was

[@georgesrobitaille3767]

@@erin19030 In Canada we had something similar. My grandfather went to school for electronics and then became an apprentice at Clairtone in Montréal...those were the bad old days when Québec still discriminated against the French, and the only reason he got a job was because his grandfather was Irish so his name did not look French to the employer, even though he was.

[@Tellywacker]

"Captain Clevis and the Captive Nuts". I about fell off my chair! That's the kind of humor I keep coming back for. Your electronic skills and expert descriptions are a gold mine to enjoying and understanding your videos. It is a great pleasure to watch your videos.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Israel. We try to mix some humor into the tech "stuff" :)

[@chazdog789]

We have a great group of folks here... Thank you for all that you do UD...

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, Charlie.......the best group of viewers on all of KZbin.

[@fransterhorst3694]

another gem of a double video. Awesome to see how you put safety first. you have such patience in that you do things even three times over if thats what it takes. cheers for sharing all these cool things.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Frans.

[@EngineeringVignettes]

One hour and 13 minutes of Uncle Dougy pure goodness, woot! I'm glad you made the decision to put a transformer in the amp, I was wincing all through the part where you were trying to get a solution without one (where really the only safe way to run it would be through an isolation transformer). That rat rod is a _Sweet Ride_ too and the triple carbs kicking in sound niiice. I'm not normally a safety freak when commenting but perhaps double-nutting that additional spring return would be a good idea? just in case the engine vibration backs it off of the all-thread while driving. Cheers and glad to see you are surviving the extremely harsh winter down south, really I don't know how you do it... astonishing. - Eddy

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for all the great comments, Ed. You're right.....I will tend to securing that return adjuster.

[@erikjohansson1814]

Holy Greta Thunberg hate him.

[@timothyb1559]

I'm not sure what is scarier; a series filament tube amp or highway driving in Texas after a 1/2" of snow. Thank for not editing out those behind-the-scenes moments - we don't want people to think the life of a tube amp repair technician is all glamor, fortune and fame!

[@UncleDoug]

We're enjoying both hazards at the moment, Tim, with the arrival of the dreaded Polar Vortex overnight.

[@w.rustylane5650]

You nailed it--an obscure and unknown brand of amp. I think those were curtain hooks. Those were some weird input jacks--the likes of which I've never seen!

[@cassvirgillo3395]

Hi Uncle Doug, I hope all is good with you and yours. You don't need a schematic, your the master. Always excellent explanations of the circuit and expert work. Quite the blizzard you had. Spring starts March 20th. Thank you, all the best, C.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Cass. I hope we survive ;)

[@audiotechlabs4650]

The power transformer you installed might have been enough for 2 6V6s in parallel for 10+ watts. The owner should install a pair of 4 ohm speakers to make the whole amp a winner! You did exactly what you should have done! To spend the money on a vintage amp, to go gigging with is the absolute smartest way to go. Safe, sounds great, a win-win! You did not have to restore the series filament circuit and get shocked, all you have to do is get in the '30 Ford Hotrod and engage the 3 carbs to give you the Fiz! Love Ya Uncle Doug, you are #1! Thanxz

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, ATL. I have spoken with the owner and he has a great pair of 4 Ohm 8" speakers that he will install in series, upon return of the amp. I appreciate your support for my decision on this repair. Building from scratch seemed way better than trying to flog a near-dead, dangerous horse into becoming something it never really was.

[@lonniezamarripa959]

No editing necessary! I think the video is perfect. I enjoyed very much the obvious dedication to your craft and care for the customer. Thanks

[@docholliday3150]

Great job on the 3X2's Doug. Based on my unfortunate experience with a fuel line popping off and causing a minor "overheating" of my car, I respectfully recommend hose clamps on those fuel lines. I understand there are cancer-free clamps available at a modest increase in price over those which cause cancer. Cheers, Doc.

[@pneumatic00]

Clearly you're not aware of the recent upsurge in stainless-steel induced cancers somehow clustered in the known hotrod hotbeds in the Southwest and California. Some say it's because of Chromium-6 in the stainless, some think it's the Molybdenum.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Doc. The fuel pressure is limited to 3 PSI, but you make a good point. I will add the clamps......but only if they are certified to be cancer free.

[@DKentization]

UD, what a labor of love!!! thank you for sharing your knowledge...it reminds me of how the great blues men passed their art down to the young players who were enamored with their heroes. I can only imagine your client feels the same way! bravo!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks. He's a really nice, appreciative guy, DK.....which is why I'm willing to go the extra mile for him.

[@sirfultonbishop]

“Rumors of drifts up to 2” deep!” 😂 Love the coupe!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Fulton

[@TheGuitologist]

Ok, got about halfway through. The reason the tone was lousy and the amp noisy is you probably set up a ground loop between the neutral and ground plug of your new 3-prong cord. I've had that happen and had to fight my way out of that. Not to toot my horn here, but I've probably worked on more of these amps than anyone in their right mind ever should. Also, a 1:1 isolation transformer wold have cut down on noise in addition to making it safer. I know you knew that part already. The ground loop thing though, you might not have realized. Been there several times, and got the videos to prove it. :D It's a better amp having been redone though. Nice job, Doug, as always!

[@carrmvc3507]

Hi, I like your channel. What about the OT in this amp? If original wouldn't it be potentially wrong for a 6v6 with a bit different load resistance and higher voltage? I think these OT's have a normal rating of about 150v and about a 2.5k primary. Don't know if the 2 50l6 tubes makes the load resistance different but the voltage is. Just curious as to your opinion. Thanks! Also these OT's usually have a 3,2 to 4ohm load so maybe the 8 ohm load raises the primary impedance for the 6v6.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the helpful comments and input, Brad. I will definitely check into the ground loop situation.

[@UncleDoug]

I agree with your final analysis, Michael. The increased load resistance between the parallel 50L6's and the 6V6 should have been somewhat nullified by the 8 Ohm load. Regardless, it did sound just fine.

[@stevenstewart3414]

'Love these double features of amps and hot rods! Uncle Doug, you are a national treasure. Your videos should be in the Library of Congress. Your amps should be represented in the Louvre for their artistic value, the Smithsonian for the historical record and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for their sound. What a wealth of skill, knowledge, and ingenuity you embody! Hey, and aren't Jack and Ollie sounding better all the time? Rusty is up in Doggie Heaven movin' and groovin' to their tunes! Oh, and Captain Clevis... Wasn't he the long lost brother of Captain Beefheart. As I remember, he walked like a cowboy too long in the saddle. People said it was his sea legs, but his urologist knows that it had to do with his captive nuts.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow.....thanks so much, Steven. We appreciate your nice comments and observations :)

[@erikjohansson1814]

Uncle Doug, you have outdone yourself with this video. It has it all, a serious case of wiring failure, unknown brand and no wiring diagram, terrible sound once wired and then good sound after a fix, a bit longer guitar play (I enjoy to listen when you play the guitar but often it is quite short), the hotrod mechanical work, a road trip plus your dry humour and comments. Fantastic. Never stop doing what you’re doing. Oh, I am also happy you did survive the blizzard you had! The whole state must have stopped in its tracks considering all the snow. Terrible.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for your very nice comments, Erik. Yes, it was touch and go for a while, but somehow the pioneer spirit of our hardy population found a way to persevere.

[@gerryjamesedwards1227]

The sound of the amp made me smile.... the sound of the 'Rod's engine made me grin from ear to ear like a fool.

[@UncleDoug]

Two good sounds in one video......a KZbin double play :) Thanks, Gerry.

[@skip1835]

Another home run! - - thank you Uncle Doug, what a fantastic video - - Speakers - - Wires - - Tubes - - Carburetors - - "Cancerous" Red Fuel Line - - I must be in heaven, not to mention your 3rd calling Doug - - you're a king among comedians - - pure learning, laughs and entertainment from start to finish, and yes - I could feel your pain too as you went about overcoming all of the issues associated with this presentation - it's all so appreciated !

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Skip. Nice comments like yours make it all worthwhile......even with this ungodly project.

[@DeadKoby]

SS Stewart was and old Banjo maker. Later their name became a "sticker" for a store brand. I had one of their guitars pass though here many years ago.

[@UncleDoug]

Very interesting, DK. Thanks !!

[@failuremagnet]

My father had an SS Stewart amp. Big old dark brown thing that had a 12 or 15 in it. I blew it up playing Sabbath through it in my first high school band... 😣 Live and learn. In fact, it's the exact model you found on pinterest, later in the vid.

[@byrdz2313]

I don’t understand electronics however, I enjoy watching these videos in their entirety,

[@UncleDoug]

That's great to hear, Michael. Keep watching and your understanding will grow rapidly.

[@TheGuitologist]

Stewart was not British. I believe there was a connection between the Stewart whose logos are on these amps and SS Stewart. Their amps were made by other manufacturers though, not by them. I've owned a Stewart before and featured it on my channel years ago. Mine was made by Gregory. Yours looks Chicago made to me.

[@TheGuitologist]

Here's a link to mine, if you allow links: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qWiXc6JnZbSMnJY

[@framusburns-hagstromiii808]

Yup..thought so ...that squiggly grill cloth on the other 'Stewart' amp he found online looks like the type used on Hilgen amps as well...

[@paulcummings6879]

@@TheGuitologist 1

[@arielsaeth]

If it came from over here in UK,I dont think that 117volt decal would be there,the civilised world (ha ha)has been 220-240v for ever. even looks a US made amp,and amp font.

[@Darryl603]

Really enjoyed your custom fabrication work! Thank you for taking the time to share...

[@highvoltagebeaver6640]

Awesome video! Good call on the complete rewire. If it didn't sound good as is, then well worth it. As a 20 year electrician, the ONLY way I know to make a series filament amp "safe" is to plug it into a GFCI, however, this still relies on a relay subject to failure. "Isolation" xfmr still passes 120v A/C.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your support of my decision, HVB.....and your nice comments.

[@bwithrow011]

Wow! What a wreck! But Uncle Doug can make this Stewart amp like new. Doug, your knowledge never ceases to amaze me.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bob. Glad you liked it.

[@michael931]

“I sense danger and react like a cat.” - Super Dave Osborne, and Uncle Doug

[@UncleDoug]

Sounds like he poops......and then buries it :)

[@WCM1945]

I sense danger when I touch a charged plate supply. Then I DO react like a cat. Except I don't say "meow". Same number of letters, though.

[@UncleDoug]

@@WCM1945 Amen......as my neighbors can attest.

[@HipocratesAG]

Man that engine is BADASS!!! outstanding work Uncle D.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Sergio :)

[@superamp2724]

Haha my first thought was wondering how you told him he couldn't have it back.

[@UncleDoug]

That thought did cross my mind, Greg :)

[@avi8tor13]

Incredible talent, Uncle Doug, from machining engine and body parts to repairing and explaining electrical circuits in guitar amplifiers. And, if that wasn’t overwhelming enough, you can play guitar as well. I have learned such a great deal from your clear instruction about amplifier circuits and how and why their different components work together to create amplification. You are an incredibly detailed and patient teacher. I have a Kalamazoo model 2 amp that I have recapped twice over the past 47 years, and I’m planning to recap again, get the tremolo working, a try to quiet the persistent hum. Do you give guitar lessons? I play a little but clearly you know some great licks! I continue to look forward to watching your library of fascinating videos. Thank you for your instructional and entertaining videos! -Dan W

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for all your very nice comments, Dan, but all credit for the guitar playing must go to Ollie & Jack ;) Good luck with your Kalamazoo project.

[@garyrose5211]

Hi Uncle Doug, I discouvered your videos on amp restoration and repair not long ago, they are really informative and entertaining; with the addition of the surprise bonus at the end of your videos of your hot rods. I am based in UK. Your work has been inspiring to me as I enjoy making and building box style guitars and now make my own guitar FX pedals.. Like yourself I am into hot rods, retrorods and custom work, I have under taken custom painting work and Airbrush work in the past as I have airbrushed for many years. I have just recently purchased the innards (circuit) to a original FuzzFace fuzz pedal and put the circuit into a more pedalboard friendly enclosure that I customized with metalflake and candy paint for fun. I appreciate the labour of love you give to both your amp projects and your hot rods.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks so much, Gary. I wish you lived closer and could do some custom paint work on my cars.

[@mikeault]

Uncle Doug really is knowledgeable and explains everything in a perfect way for layman, or experienced circuit guy. Great KZbin guy

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Mike :)

[@jonnybeck6723]

Electric guitar amps and small block Chevy's... You're runnin' a pipeline straight to me heart (via me ears) ...and whilst already thoroughly entertained (at 4 in the A.M.) the leaf blower comment coaxed a full belly laugh outta me! (not nearly enuf 'a them guys ever) Thanx so very much and Jack & Ollie's playing is gettin' really clean! cheers

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jonny :)

[@DemonKingOFFICIAL]

Man I was not expecting you to say that. “I gutted everything and reinstalled a new circuit that I know would work.” A class act.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Matthew. Sometimes it's just easier and better to simply start over from scratch :)

[@UBOOFTB]

Hi UD! You make a lot of people happy. Thank You. Peace and love to you. The Stewart is a beauty!

[@julesl6910]

Absolutely incredible video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and your guitar playing was extremely pleasant to listen to.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jules. We're glad you enjoyed it..

[@hadireg]

Thank you Uncle Doug ! it's always a well spent time watching your videos!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Hadi :)

[@drewmello6462]

I just want to thank you for everything you do Uncle Doug, we all appreciate it so much! I've learned more from you about tube amp building/repairing/schematics/function than any other channel or person. I was born in and live in RI and I'm glad to know I'm not the only one in the smallest State in the Union that loves you!!

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks so much, Drew. RI may be a small state, but it has some very nice citizens.

[@Theatersounz]

This is one of the best videos on you tube I feel, because it is a nightmare of an amp, it shows us the best examples of bad engineering and safety issues. Thankyou Uncle Doug your the best!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Dave. I guess you're right.....although at the time, I couldn't think of any good things to say about it :)

[@Theatersounz]

@@UncleDoug Well I learnt a heck of a lot watching this one for sure, oh btw I love your car too! 😁👍

[@jonpardue]

Uncle Doug what a great video. The Stewart amplifier was in terrible condition and it sounds great through the shop speaker! The high Voltage and 30 mA bias came out just right. A great save. Nice effort making the carburetion fit on the street rod, and nice to be along for the ride, too. Thanks for investing time to make videos and get a camera in there so we can see.

[@UncleDoug]

It was our pleasure, Jon. Thanks for coming along for the ride.

[@pedrolarenas]

Thanks Uncle Doug After watching and learning from your videos, I was encouraged to make my own amplifier, and I am going to the second tube amplifier.

[@UncleDoug]

That's great news, Pedro. Best of luck with your next project.

[@Ron_Padgett]

Oh man excellent video! The hotrod is sooo cool I love it! Great work Uncle Doug!!!

[@jackmatthews2840]

Jack here again Sir, K.C. and Jack's playing is getting better. You are an excellent guitar teacher too.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jack, from both Jack.....and me :)

[@ziggfreud9820]

Wow! Really nice job. Hope client appreciates what you actually did!! Been watching bout four years. Your videos are priceless.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thank you, Zigg. The customer was very pleased and appreciative.

[@tomasjones3755]

Another fine resto and detailed explanation. Please keep 'em coming. My fav line, in the vid: "well, at least the pilot light works"

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Tomas. I believe in being thankful for small favors ;)

[@hubbsllc]

You did the right thing with this amp, Doug. Sometimes the original design really just shouldn’t be carried forward.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Hub. I agree.

[@whatsstefon]

Just goes to show us young guns, old doesn’t always mean good.

[@UncleDoug]

@@whatsstefon Not when it's a bad, old design.

[@whatsstefon]

@@UncleDoug 100% I've just begun gutting an old radio that was powered by 2x 6V6GT came with a 12" Rola speaker in perfect condition. Output transformer still mounted to the basket. Deciding where I do some sort of Supro clone or one of the many good old Fender models. Possibly thinking low power studio bass amp. Something like a Bassman preamp stage with 6V6 poweramp stage. Who knows really. But I'll have to make a choice before I begin building.

[@UncleDoug]

@@whatsstefon Indeed you will, Stefano, but it will be a nice project regardless :)

[@DennisMurphey]

Amazing, i admit i had taken a break and bought a Fender Super Champ X2 with digital modeling and 2 6v6 for output power. But last month I came back and just saw three of your rebuilds on a binge watch. I sold my Strat and Fender Gear, Ordered a Knockoff Jazzmaster and bought a Hammond Organ Amp modified for Guitar and an 8 Inch Celeation speaker but no cabinet. Now i want to upgrade the cheap Jazzmaster and rework this Boutique amp for reverb and anything else we can build in Tubes. Then in this video the 34!!!!! With Tripower and progressive linkage. I was so impressed. I can do cars anymore but i did have tripower once and made the linkage so poorly the spring to overcome the end carbs was too strong. Once you got to the hard part about 3,000 to go further it took so much pressure you just floor board the gas to 6.500 and the car would rip your head off, it was so crazy. I am so glad to be back, missed your lectures and lessons and great videos. Thank You for all you do see so many folks feel the same way i do. You are a Champ. Stay well, D

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Dennis. Best of luck with your projects.

[@jeffmitchell9214]

Thanks for the new video. A new Uncle Doug video must now include reading all of the comments to get the full experience of the event. I read fast and this is now taking many wonderful minutes out of my busy day. Many happy minutes.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for spending time with us, Jeff.

[@tiki_trash]

Uncle Doug! Your guitar playing has betting getter day by day. You Rock!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, TT, but all credit must go to Ollie & Jack.....the feline maestros.

[@tiki_trash]

@@UncleDoug oops! I said betting getter, a little too much sauce last night. Well, those felines need a drum kit and a dog house bass (sans the cat gut) to back you up!

[@UncleDoug]

@@tiki_trash There are several fresh, feral recruits howling at the door for food, so I guess the band may add some members.

[@Mrs.3617]

ITS REALLY IMPRESSIVE YOUR FABRICATION SKILLS.THE TIME THE PATIENCE THE NUMBER OF TRIPS TO WHATABURGER I JUST WANTED TO TELL YOU THE THINGS THAT YOU MAKE ARE BEAUTIFUL IT TAKES TALENT TO DO THAT AND YOU HAVE IT THANKS FOR ANOTHER WONDERFUL VIDEO I WONNA GO FOR A RIDE ILL EVEN HOLD THE CAMERA

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, PJ. We do love our Whataburgers :) I do need a cameraman for future death-defying rides.....but one of the qualifications is possession of lots of beer and steaks :)

[@Ploobstill]

Doug, you are a nice man. Plain and simple.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks, Barry. I try to be.

[@scotthollingsworth7720]

I'm working on a 54' Guild master amp that is using series filament design, and actually quite similar design in general to the stewart in your video. When I looked at the amp and saw the 2 prong AC going straight to the rectifier tube I thought, this can't be right. This video clarified the circuit for me, including what is the purpose of the transformer if AC is going straight to the tube. Anyway, won't bother with a total redesign of my amp, just restore to original (sketchy) design. Thanks Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Scott. Good luck with your project. Be careful :)

[@EvilHomer1973]

Uncle Doug playing STP always makes me smile!

[@ois-jy9kl]

2" of snow.... I live near Montreal canada... at that time this winter whe add 2meters of snow ❄ 😁.. love your channel i'm building a 5f1 into a princeton chassis at the moment .. you video hare inspiring .. tanks 🙂

[@UncleDoug]

It was a brutal winter, LF ;) Best of luck with your project.

[@profxpedals2009]

The coupe sounds ferocious! Thanks for another awesome video!

[@UncleDoug]

The pleasure was ours, Prof. X

[@michaelbutler2312]

what an amazing video. i really do appreciate that you got to the point where you decided you could do better. sometimes i beat that dead horse too long before plan b steps in. i also appreciated the mention of how the bias circuit and the dropping resistor needs to be looked at. thanks,

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Michael. I think we all tend to flog the dead horse a bit from time to time.

[@KB_Joys]

Good job breathing life into that old thing. Nice video as always Uncle Doug, you da man.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bruce.

[@DerekRonin]

Thanks Uncle Doug for being the uncle we all need, especially during the last 3 yrs of nonsensical roller coaster. 👍 😀

[@UncleDoug]

It has been a rough ride, Derek. Let's hope it ends soon......in a good way :)

[@HooksBill]

Just found your channel. Your combined knowledge and humor won me over. Subbed.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Bill. Welcome to our channel.

[@TheOldBoy101]

I really like that Ampro Projector speaker. It's in great shape ! What a cool logo ! I have a few of these and love them ! They are 12" Jensen speakers.

[@williamhill6705]

Going the extra mile again uncle doug, a great result with the stewart amp ,also did a fantastic bit of hot rod restoration and mods, please don`t ever try to change your sense of humour, its perfect as is , i`m looking forward to the next exciting instalment ,alternating viewing between yours and the guitologist channels , it makes refreshing viewing !

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, William. We really appreciate your time and interest :)

[@stevenclarke5606]

Great job Uncle Doug, that’s a lot of work that you put in. A total redesign and build to get an amplifier that is safe to use and provides a great sound, that was a total nightmare of an amplifier. In hindsight you should have just returned it.

[@UncleDoug]

We love a challenge, Steven. Just replacing filter caps gets a bit boring after a while :)

[@goldenbruce3583]

You really got a great patience on that terrible Stewart amp uncle Doug, and finally decided a very heroic act to changed the character of that amp,very Wonderful .uncle doug your a tube amp hero

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Bruce :)

[@joseislanio8910]

Your repair videos are very enjoyable to watch. Actually, one of your videos inspired me to build my first point to point tube amp. And it's my favourite amp as well! Keep up the awesome work

[@UncleDoug]

That's great to hear, Jose. Congratulations on putting the information in the videos to good, practical use. We will :)

[@HandlebarWorkshops]

Great video, Uncle Doug! Both the amp and the car. Thank you for sharing it all with us.

[@UncleDoug]

It was our pleasure, HW.

[@w.rustylane5650]

Wow, that amp you built really has a great bass response. Sounds really good. Nice work, Uncle Doug. Rusty in eastern Tennessee

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Rusty :) Glad you enjoyed it.

[@byensbutler]

Brilliant as usual - you have NO idea how much I enjoy your videos!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, BB :)

[@raymondheath7668]

This video helped me a lot! I too have a power transformer that had the wrong voltage for my output tubes. The resistor capacitor setup that you used brought my voltage down to +300 volts and the rest of the circuit nodes up to the input went perfect

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad the video was helpful, Raymond.

[@clayz1]

Rat Fink would be proud of that coup. Thanks for another scintillating vid.

[@UncleDoug]

I hope so, Clay. Our pleasure :)

[@BrianClem]

I learn so much from each video. I came here for the tube amp and stayed for the car fab. Interesting birds around 1hr mark. I don't here those calls in Florida.

[@UncleDoug]

That's great to hear, Brian. I feed the wild birds, so they tend to hang around :)

[@SimonGotlieb]

Well this is timely. I'm building myself a 5F2A right now. Some good ideas here which will help me with my own build. Many thanks again Doug. :)

[@SimonGotlieb]

Also cool to see you go with a full wave solid state rectifier using the 1N5408 diodes - I've done the exact same thing, and seeing you do it has confirmed I had the right idea. I'm using a New Zealand made Beacon R71 power transformer - 80mA 280-0-280v, 6.3V@3.5A - which originally used an EZ80 rectifier, but decided to use the diodes as I couldn't afford any voltage drop in the circuit due to tube rectification. Love your videos.

[@UncleDoug]

Greetings, Simon. I'm glad the video was helpful. Good luck with your project.

[@gearheadted9210]

Wow nice double feature,bon bons and fanta orange consumed in mass quantity,oh crap,drove off with the speaker in the window! another super cool informative video from the Master of sparks!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ted. Glad you liked it :)

[@fixitmyself]

I have to admit I am completely out of my depth but I really enjoy these videos Doug. Thank you

[@UncleDoug]

The pleasure is all ours, BN. Thanks for watching.

[@paulhartnett4739]

I really enjoy the content, humor, and pets on your videos. Thank you from Massachusetts.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Paul. My ancestors hailed from Mass. but headed west to the desolation of West Texas. Otherwise, we might be neighbors.

[@paulhartnett4739]

@@UncleDoug Oh -- thanks to you and Utube, we essentially are. Thanks again.

[@paulhartnett4739]

What town(s) are your ancestors from? I may be living in or near there.

[@UncleDoug]

@@paulhartnett4739 Athol, Hingham, and Braintree, Paul. My grandfather was a master machinist at the L.S. Starrett Co.

[@paulhartnett4739]

@@UncleDoug Starrett makes or made precision tools in Athol, I think. Hingham and Braintree are on the South Shore on the way to the Cape. I live west of Boston in a very small town called Sherborn. You go through Hingham and Braintree to get to the old Paragon Park and Nantasket Beach in Hull, Mass.

[@flatbrokefrank6482]

Its great to see someone go the extra mile instead of taking your money and running - Take care.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Frank. We're too old to run :)

[@thesillyhatday]

Really enjoyed this video. I yern for an old hot rod like that. I would enjoy the bigger hot rod projects, like that on,e to be a video of its own. Good to see you back. Long periods of no videos and I worry a bit. Thanks

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for worrying about us, SHD. We're doing fine and hope to be around for a while longer :)

[@LitesLAB]

As always, excellent job Uncle Doug! I don’t blame you for changing the circuit. The result speaks for itself. I would recommend that anyone with a series filament do the same, just to dangerous otherwise.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, LaB :)

[@vhm14u2c]

Hi uncle Doug. Great redo of the Stewart amp. The 50c5/50xx widomaker amp series, I never plan to fix , but repurpose into a safe , good sounding amp as well. Your expertise , speaker and cabinet make that amp shine. Great job on the vintage vehicle too!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Vince :)

[@djentlover]

46:00 This is just honey to the ears! I really really want this amp-cab combo...

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad yo liked it, Dj.

[@zendixie]

Thanks for another wonderful and instructional video. after becoming a fan years ago, you have given me the know how and courage to fix my amps. I must say your guitar skills have really improved! now I want to build a Princeton. oh, and a rat rod too.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Z. Best of luck with both projects :)

[@sam127001]

This was a very entertaining and informative video ! Thanks for producing this !

[@UncleDoug]

The pleasure was all mine, Sam.

[@argus5323]

Great video Uncle Doug. I really like what you did on this one...wish we could have heard some good tunes from the original speakers. Just makes me want to get out a bunch of old electronics and build an amp.

[@UncleDoug]

Be careful what you wish for, Argus ;) By all means, acquire some parts and try building one :)

[@Mojoman57]

Captain Clevis and the Captive Nuts. I'm in. Great video, UD.

[@UncleDoug]

I saw them play at the Jockey Shorts Stadium back in the 60's. It was a hair raising show.

[@Powertuber1000]

You are an amp wizard and make these videos so interesting.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, PT. Wait until you see the two new videos I'm currently working on.

[@brentstewart59]

I've missed your videos Uncle Doug and holy cow that amp has my name on it to boot. Great job and beautiful work with the hot rod too

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Brent.

[@tomk1tl]

Hey UD...glad that you survived the tundra in El Paso.......this morning (2/15/2020) we in New England had temperatures up in Maine @ -28°F. One report near Caribou ME reported a temperature of -36°F. There is about 30"+ on the ground up there but is below average as far as snowfall goes for the season. Temperatures have been slightly above normal for this time of year. I hope that the kitty cats were well protected from the weather. Here in SE Rhode Island, we still have "bare ground...giving my snow "relocator" a breather but we still have about two more months of weather to worry about ! Stay warm down there...as always, I enjoy your videos !

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Tom. It was close to 70 today with clear skies and a slight breeze.....perfect for a cruise in the hot rod :)

[@marcosa3145]

Wow! Sweet, mellow and balanced. That sounds fantastic!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Marcos.

[@madDadMusic]

I really enjoy the additional hot-rod footage that you put in.

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad, Tim. You're always welcome.

[@timidater4803]

You Sir are a wizard at electronics!!! Really enjoy your videos!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Tim :)

[@samdefrancomusic]

So glad you avoided those 2 inch snow drifts Uncle Doug! Watch out for any associated glaciers! :)

[@UncleDoug]

It was hell for a couple hours, Sam, but we survived :)

[@GL64]

Love it! Great stuff as always, and please keep the little bits of car stuff coming too.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, GL. I will.

[@timka880057]

Love the three two setup. I like the fuel filter where you put it, it's in a perfect place.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, CTE. Not out of sight = not forgotten ;)

[@jamescarter4175]

Wow! Awesome video from beginning to end. Thanks!

[@barbsfpv3066]

This was a great resurrection video. However, you replaced a push-pull amplifier with a single-ended one, and harp players absolutely 'love' their push-pull amplifiers because of the harmonics and saturation. So you made an amp that works, and sounds great, but I think as a harp player they were probably hoping to get back a working 50L6 push-pull amplifier circuit. That's what I was hoping to see too, a reworked schematic with push-pull 50L6's, which would have screamed, and sagged, and sounded great. I had an old Pacemaker PM-33 that had push-pull 6L6 output and the tone was insane. I absolutely loved it, but then it died in a wildfire (one of the tragedies of living in California). This isn't criticism or anything, just disappointment. I love your videos, they're always so informative. I'm learning a ton from them. Thanks!

[@UncleDoug]

I'm sorry for the disappointment, Barbs. Some might say that I took a non-functioning death trap and turned it into a great sounding amp. Single ended amps have wonderful harmonics and saturation. Bottom line, the owner was thrilled, so I guess it all turned out OK.

[@glasstronic]

Well, THAT was a safe bet! Not disappointed; indeed lifted. You did your customer solidly well, IMHO. What you say @ ~ 00:32:00 should be the credo of us all.

[@wlogue]

Man, was that ever sweet! The amp and the old A. I am a recent sub of yours, more into Hi Fi amps as I cant play a lick. I am into old rock, Willys jeeps, hot rods, and tube gear of any kind, and admire anyone who can play guitar! Oh and I also have the shop cats who are just as helpful as yours. Thank you Uncle D. Cheers from the Pac Northwest!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for all the great comments, 682.