Using a silicon diode rectifier instead of an AZ31 valve

[Skywave]

I am reasonably sure that a fair number of 1N400x diodes that I do have in stock are quite old, but I still maintain that inserting voltage-equalizing resistors across a chain of rectifiers is well-worth doing. As for those resistors failing on account of inadequate voltage rating, that is something I have never experienced when using them for this purpose, but I do understand and appreciate the importance of the voltage-rating of resistors, especially those with spirally-cut tracks.

So, in conclusion, I repeat what I said earlier: my remarks are based on experience, spread over 45 years. It seems that you and I will have to agree to disagree on this topic.

Al.