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Components and Circuits For discussions about component types, alternatives and availability, circuit configurations and modifications etc. Discussions here should be of a general nature and not about specific sets. |
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14th May 2023, 7:58 pm | #1 |
Triode
Join Date: Dec 2017
Location: Herne Bay, Kent, UK.
Posts: 16
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Tarnished variable capacitor plates
I am currently restoring a Heathkit RA1 receiver. The main tuning capacitor is dirty and the plates are tarnished. I have read in other posts about putting in the dishwasher, but not sure if this will clean the plates. Another option is brake / clutch cleaner, but not sure if this will clean the plates either. Any suggestions? Or do I just clean it and leave the plates tarnished?
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14th May 2023, 9:13 pm | #2 |
Octode
Join Date: Mar 2020
Location: Blackburn with Darwen, Lancashire, UK.
Posts: 1,573
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Re: Tarnished variable capacitor plates
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14th May 2023, 11:11 pm | #3 |
Octode
Join Date: Jul 2018
Location: Worthing, West Sussex, UK.
Posts: 1,002
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Re: Tarnished variable capacitor plates
Just leave them as they are if they work fine.
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16th May 2023, 8:57 am | #4 |
Triode
Join Date: Dec 2017
Location: Herne Bay, Kent, UK.
Posts: 16
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Re: Tarnished variable capacitor plates
Thanks for the replies. Cleaned up the frame and used contact cleaner on the rotor. Decided to leave the tarnished vanes as is.
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16th May 2023, 10:45 am | #5 |
Moderator
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Fife, Scotland, UK.
Posts: 22,900
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Re: Tarnished variable capacitor plates
Dishwasher tablets will etch aluminium surfaces. Grease and muck will protect some areas from the cleaning/etching process leaving a messy surface.
Ultrasonic cleaning baths seem to be the tool of choice. David
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16th May 2023, 3:39 pm | #6 |
Nonode
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Nuneaton, Warwickshire, UK.
Posts: 2,039
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Re: Tarnished variable capacitor plates
I heard someone say, on one of the VMARS AM morning nets, that they'd put a VC in the dish washer and it came up really good. They were concerned about the bearings though and thought they'd have to re grease them somehow.
Cheers Sub
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