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Vintage Audio (record players, hi-fi etc) Amplifiers, speakers, gramophones and other audio equipment.

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Old 24th May 2018, 1:04 pm   #21
Nuvistor
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

You have at the moment a piece of power cord connecting to the arm wiring via the tag strip. Replace that with screened lead, see post #10.
With that fixed, clean the switches and controls as per post #12.

Both straightforward tasks that require attention, if you still have problems after that it will require a more in-depth investigation.
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Old 24th May 2018, 1:06 pm   #22
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Thread title updated.

The wiring TO the arm, not IN the arm is a heap of carp and needs replacing before you go any further.

The balance control controls the relative volume of the two channels. It's normally set near the mid position. If it's dirty it may result in low volume on one channel. That's why I suggested working it back and forth and cleaning it.
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Old 24th May 2018, 2:11 pm   #23
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

okay - totally with you now! sorry I was being thick - I'll get on it many thanks everyone.

sorry - also does have anyone know the best way to take off the plastic led 'shield'? its about the only thing that is keeping the front panel on - i want to be able to take it off for cleaning
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Old 24th May 2018, 2:26 pm   #24
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

I noted that the 'balance' fault was affecting radio operation, so is an amplifier fault - that's not to say that the cartridge isn't faulty as well.

It's certainly been badly 'got-at', and that bodged in rubber covered mains cable on the pickup tag strip will need to be removed and replaced with the proper screened lead before anything else is attempted - why has somebody done that?
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Old 24th May 2018, 2:36 pm   #25
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Techman View Post
I noted that the 'balance' fault was affecting radio operation, so is an amplifier fault - that's not to say that the cartridge isn't faulty as well.

It's certainly been badly 'got-at', and that bodged in rubber covered mains cable on the pickup tag strip will need to be removed and replaced with the proper screened lead before anything else is attempted - why has somebody done that?
...do you think it's worth working on then if it's an ampilifer fault?
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Old 24th May 2018, 2:37 pm   #26
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

One channel of the tag strip isn't even connected (thin red wire) so I'm not surprised there's a balance problem when playing records.
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Old 24th May 2018, 3:08 pm   #27
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

I think you may well struggle with this, but members may be prepared to try to talk you through sorting it out - see what others have to say.

Graham - I think he was demonstrating the balance fault while set to 'radio', I don't think there's been any footage of a record being played yet, as when it's set to 'gram' there's just a lot of noise and distortion with some 'radio station' trying to break through - probably something to do with that old rubber mains cable on the pickup tags.
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Old 24th May 2018, 3:12 pm   #28
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

I must confess that I have not looked at the video, so I have no idea as to where the balance control is set.

Faced with this unit and finding that it worked after a fashion, I'd change that cable before I even got my meter out of the tool box.
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Old 24th May 2018, 3:59 pm   #29
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

You seem to be specialising in record players Wrong Era. Did you start of with any knowledge at all? Although it's a Radiogram and not a portable [posts 1* /16*] there's not a profound difference if you know what you are doing.

It's worrying that you didn't find the model number and that the wiring is so disastrous. Was it in that state when you got it? There's plenty of help if you follow the advice but sort of just diving in unprepared is not the norm. I think Graham was suggesting [in post 17*] start at the stylus end, before applying power and work methodically. We certainly wouldn't want you to be at any risk of electrocution. The Americans say "error" not Era and you could well make a serious one. Have you read any of the stickies re repairing a record player? Some portables have a live chassis!

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Old 24th May 2018, 4:43 pm   #30
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

What the OP is calling a record player, is in fact a quite quality Ferguson Unit Audio System and is worth perservering with. Unlike a standard Radiogram, he can use good external speakers with this. I think we can conclude from the number of Posts and basic queries so far that it might be much safer and more straightforward, if he was assisted by a local Member in Northants. Perhaps the OP pleae advise what he would like to do next?
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Old 24th May 2018, 5:53 pm   #31
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Techman View Post
I noted that the 'balance' fault was affecting radio operation, so is an amplifier fault - that's not to say that the cartridge isn't faulty as well.

It's certainly been badly 'got-at', and that bodged in rubber covered mains cable on the pickup tag strip will need to be removed and replaced with the proper screened lead before anything else is attempted - why has somebody done that?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Edward Huggins View Post
What the OP is calling a record player, is in fact a quite quality Ferguson Unit Audio System and is worth perservering with. Unlike a standard Radiogram, he can use good external speakers with this. I think we can conclude from the number of Posts and basic queries so far that it might be much safer and more straightforward, if he was assisted by a local Member in Northants. Perhaps the OP pleae advise what he would like to do next?
Dave and Edward hi,
I do specialise in record players yes - but I completely self taught and still wet around the ears - i think my problem is lack of believing I can actually do it, there are times when I have had to fix a problem and felt totally out of my comfort zone but then when I actually did it - found it very easy and with no problems.
In truth I didnt see the model number because the unit is currently neatled stored away and i couldn't move it all the way out - so I was relying on memory and yes the unit was in this condition when I bought it - all I have done is released the deck and tried to take the panel off the front - which is why I was asking if anyone knew the best way to remove the plastic led cover from the panel? I have had experiences in the past where it just snaps and is unusable!
If I know how to do something I normally get on with it - but if I don't I like to come here to get other peoples experience and knowledge to help me...

In answer to the question I am more than happy to do this myself I just wanted some help - but also if there is anyone local that would be great as I am always keen to learn
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Old 24th May 2018, 6:15 pm   #32
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Good to hear. In the meantime, why would you want to remove the front panel?
In order to re-wire the area that needs attention (and as already advised to you) there is no need to remove the front panel at this stage. I also think what you are calling an LED may be something else - your unit is pre-LED. Do re-read the advice already offered.
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Old 24th May 2018, 7:47 pm   #33
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Here is a page from an old Ferguson brochure, describing your 3425 unit. The 3425 Unit Audio unit is made up from a 3413 stereo tuner-record player unit and 3417B loudspeakers.

As has already been said, the red (?) power on indication on the control panel won't be an LED, but either a neon lamp or a filament lamp. It's unlikely the lamp is fixed to the red lens. I suspect there are other screws or nuts that are still holding the tuner/amplifier unit in place.
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File Type: pdf Ferguson 3425 Unit Audio system.pdf (881.0 KB, 60 views)

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Old 24th May 2018, 7:52 pm   #34
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

I don't think your problem is a lack of belief in yourself, it's more like over confidence. Anyone can learn a skill but it involves listening to and understanding what's being said, not just responding and then veering off on to, say, removing the front panel. You said that you didn't know how you had missed the model number [p31*] but we would naturally assume you were organised enough so you could access the equipment-a lot of this doesn't make sense

I think I was wrong to ask if you were concentrating on record players [though clearly you are] as a hobbyist or professional would normally specialise after working/learning on a wide range of whatever the interest was but this hasn't been your path. Are you interested in Radios or Televisions for example?

There's always a need to keep yourself and others safe re any repairs. This is especially important if other people will have access to your work. Without a deeper understanding you can't be sure of that. Just take a couple of steps back, absorb the free expert advice and proceed as advised but with caution. If you have difficulty understanding various aspects [don't we all] it helps to read it up first and then ask for further clarification .

Dave W

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Old 24th May 2018, 9:40 pm   #35
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Quote:
Originally Posted by dave walsh View Post
I don't think your problem is a lack of belief in yourself, it's more like over confidence. Anyone can learn a skill but it involves listening to and understanding what's being said, not just responding and then veering off on to, say, removing the front panel. You said that you didn't know how you had missed the model number [p31*] but we would naturally assume you were organised enough so you could access the equipment-a lot of this doesn't make sense

I think I was wrong to ask if you were concentrating on record players [though clearly you are] as a hobbyist or professional would normally specialise after working/learning on a wide range of whatever the interest was but this hasn't been your path. Are you interested in Radios or Televisions for example?

There's always a need to keep yourself and others safe re any repairs. This is especially important if other people will have access to your work. Without a deeper understanding you can't be sure of that. Just take a couple of steps back, absorb the free expert advice and proceed as advised but with caution. If you have difficulty understanding various aspects [don't we all] it helps to read it up first and then ask for further clarification .

Dave W
wow! i came here for support and advice not be told that I am over confident - which I am not.
The only reason I asked about removing the panel is so I didn't have to come back at a later point and bother you all again.
I am listing the advice and plan to follow it - this is the sole reason I am a memeber of this forum.
I think some of the comments on here are very unfriendly and to be honest have put me off asking anything else.
I appreciate all the FREE help that I have been given
If I have misunderstood anyones stance here or offended anyone then I apologise but this to me feels like I am being mocked simply for asking "basic questions"

Not the support I was hoping for.
kind of saddened by this.
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Old 24th May 2018, 9:57 pm   #36
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Don't take things to heart. We're only trying to assist!

One thing that I think would help avoid any bad feeling is to carry out what has been suggested before requesting any more ideas. As yet you do not seem to have dealt with the very obvious (and easily fixable) problems with the wiring. One has to be systematic. Please do that then comment on the results and we'll take it from there.

I think people are just suggesting that you don't jump the gun by investigating the panel at this stage - one thing at a time I think is the best way.

And if you need further help, just ask after doing the above. Nobody will mind!
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Old 24th May 2018, 10:02 pm   #37
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Hi Wrong Era

No one here is having a go but look at it from a different point of view.

You have not even used your Christian name in your posts.

We get suspicious that your a dealer just trying to get free help to make money.

We are all keen to help genuine enthusiasts but many of us have been burned many times.

There is millions of hours, lifetimes of exprience on this forum, hard earned in the main.

Just be honest if your buying and selling professionally thats OK many on this forum have earned their living the same way its not a crime.

No one likes to be taken for a fool.

And lastly no one is mocking you we all had to start somewhere it might have been as long time ago but there was a time when all of us knew nothing.

Cheers

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Old 24th May 2018, 11:10 pm   #38
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

Ben and Mike have summed it up Era. There's just a clash of attitudes. Enthusiasts generally start slow and build up their knowledge base. That's been the usual process until very recently so there are now two cultures in a way. Traditional and instant [You Tube for example] this is different. It's a Forum !. It's fine to ask for help but polite to listen as well. You haven't answered any of my reasonable questions for example. By overconfident I meant it's risky all round to embark on an electrical activity without building at least some knowledge base first. I would never have done it. It's not like pottery class if it goes seriously wrong. I was very careful, sought out knowledge by myself and was then grateful for subsequent help. Just stick with it
Quite a few have done-some don't Now about that mains cable....!

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Old 24th May 2018, 11:32 pm   #39
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

This is a very good forum Mr Era - but it is not an instant fix resource. It has been going for a long time and many of the common, repetitive problems have been covered by information in the 'stickies' - so that members don't have to write the same things over and over again. Really, as pointed out, the best way to get the best out of us is to do the recommended repairs and report back on progress. That's what I have learned since I joined. There really is no better forum for this old stuff. Dig out the smouldering soldering iron and get on with it is my advice.
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Old 25th May 2018, 4:06 pm   #40
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Default Re: Calling on knowledge for a Ferguson 3425 record player.

hello, so it seems I should have mentioned / cleared up a few things...

I haven't used my 'christian' name as I was not aware that I needed to or that it was frowned upon not do so, I thought that was the reason we had usernames.

I am listening to the advice I have been given here but I guess I should have mentioned that I not able to work on this straight away for many reasons - the main being that I live in a rural village and do not drive so it's not easy for me to go get the cable mentioned in previous posts. I am also waiting for new soldering iron tips to arrive as mine were damage in a plastic welding attempt.

So my plan was to come on here and get the advice and help that I needed so when I am able to work on it I would have the information ready. (despite being calling unorganised)

The reason I want to take off the front panel is so I could clean the balance control as suggested. Again as I'm not able to work on this straight away I didn't want to get one part done and then have to message and wait for a response before I could move on to the next step.

This record player is for myself - I bought it for myself and had no idea of the state it was in until I got it home (with the help of a friend due to it's size)
I have sold record players in the past but I have never sold a record player that required electrical repair - I have only sold record players that need cosmetic repair.

I have in the past done small electrical repairs on my own dansette and on friends record players - but these were simple jobs and only jobs that I knew I could do.

My interest is only in record players which grew out of a love for the medium but mainly came to light when i was given my aunties dansette as a teenage which was in bad shape - so I read up on how to fix it - from articles on here and other sites.

I haven't been rude to anyone here and I have shown nothing but thanks for the help and advice I have been given.

I think that calling me over confident, un organised and saying that I am un able to listen all based on a forum chain is unjustified and unnecessary.

I also didn't think I would have to justify myself in this community just for asking a question which I only asked in the first place so I did not damage myself or the record player.

I would not come on here ask for help and then not listen to it as it seems that some of you are suggesting. That is utterly ridiculous.

I apologise for calling it an LED when it is a lamp and for saying Record Player when it is a Radiogram. I am not 100% up to speed with all the terminology - as I said I am still learning.

I am not taking anything to heart - I just feel that the way some of you are on here is verging on the side of elitism .

This experience as I have said in a previous post has really put me off asking any more questions and I doubt that I will be back on here if this is the way you treat new people.

I honestly hope that some of you can take a step back and objectively look at the tone of your messages and realise that some of it comes across quite abrupt and rude.
It is very easy for people to hide behind their screens and say what they want regardless.

I have been open and honest from the first post that I wasn't 100% sure what I was doing which is why I asked the question in the first place.
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