AK tuning gang

[Radio Fixer]

Washed the gang in soapy water with a soft toothbrush then rinsed and washed again in de-ionised water. When dry still covered in brown crud! Lime scale? I did let the gang dry somewhat before the de-ionised water rinse.

Anyway a "Quick Wash" in the dishwasher and its spotless. Dishwashers leave no residue. Insulation now 200M at 100V but it will go back to G Ohms when fully dry. Done them before so I know.

   

Note no trimmers on the gang else I would have removed the micas first.


Gary

[AlanBeckett]

Very swish.
What does it belong to?

Alan

[Nick]

Dishwashers are surprisingly versatile.

If you have a filthy computer keyboard, put it in the top shelf of your dishwasher, keys downwards, and cycle it on a short medium-temperature wash.

Remove, dismantle as much as possible and leave in the airing cupboard/somewhere warm for a couple of days, stood on its end. Reassemble. Looks/works great!

You can also steam-cook fish on the top rack - stuff fish with herbs etc. Rub with a bit of butter/olive oil. Wrap tightly in tin foil. Cycle dishwasher on hot setting. Tastes great!

[Radio Fixer]

Alan, its from a 1934 AK 308 which is an export model 318. An 8 valve set, tuned RF, two IFs etc. Very well constructed having all nickel plated chassis and parts, no rust anywhere. Unfortunately it uses rubber covered wire and the insulation crumbles to the touch. So a lengthy re-wire but its worth it.

Wow! never tried a PC keyboard Nick. I would have thought they would be a write off after that but worth a go I will find an old one to try.

Never tried the fish idea either, I'm no cook.

Gary

[Nick]

Wow! never tried a PC keyboard Nick. I would have thought they would be a write off after that but worth a go I will find an old one to try.

Important thing after its washed (not before as otherwise it'll be damaged) is to separate the membrane keyboard from the PCB so that any trapped moisture can escape in the airing cupboard (or wherever).

Done this a few times - works great about 80 - 90% of attempts - if the KB is likely to be chucked anyway, nothing is lost !