Thank you all for your concern on this. I've been playing/working with mains voltage since I was about seven or eight, and have managed to get a good zap or two. Luckily, I'm still here!

Anyways, I'm trying to locate an email for the ORARC, to see if someone in the area is willing to help me with this. As for test equipment, I have a used Digitor 20MHz dual trace CRO and a WEP 30V, 50A variable DC power supply. I also have a $10 Digitech QM-1500 1,000V (AC & DC) hand-held multimeter.

As for the radio, I first powered it up with all the valves removed, to check the power transformer. It seemed to run alright, so I tried again with the valves in place. This is where I discovered the issue with the mains switch. Since then, I have decided that it is best to leave it unplugged.

I have some money saved up, which I can use for components, but due to my age, I am unable to register for an account (such as Paypal) to pay for said items. This aside, I have had a few offers from some kind people to help out by ordering some for me. Regrettably though, I have since lost the emails/contacts.

I'll try and locate the values of the troublesome components, and see if my step-dad can order some online.

Also, the plastic case above the power transformer seems to have melted (though not burnt) from heat. Common sense says that this is a very bad sign, but could it just be from something like leaving the radio running for an extended period of time, or having it positioned so that the ventilation holes are covered?

Thank you again for everyone's help and concern.

Chris

I'm trying to locate an email for the ORARC, to see if someone in the area is willing to help me with this

The addy on their website is vk2bororarc.org

Their Club News section says the next general meeting is Saturday 2pm on 4th June 2011, S.E.S. Building Central Road, Port Macquarie. Perhaps you can get along to that and introduce yourself. Just let the president/chairman know that you're there.

I'd be very surprised if you couldn't find some willing help among the members. Although their main focus is transmitters and communications receivers, you will find that they have a general interest and in and knowledge of electronics (they need to in order to get their licences).

Hams are usually very sociable guys and those that I know personally would be happy to help a young fella with an interest in electronics. The older members will be quite familiar with valve technology.

And you may even find that you develop an interest in amateur radio yourself. It's a great hobby, especially for those who live outside the big smoke. Social networking and information exchange among hams is very strong.

Did you check out the schematic I sent you Chris, If you want, I'll make a detailed video on my 11-81 as to how the pickup connects & mains power cord is connected. Basically I use a DMM set to continuity & check between the active pin & the connection to the switch if it beeps when it's off you've got the polarity right! I also do similar to the neutral side as well ;)

Hi to everyone who posted on this thread.

I have just read through with interest as I have just picked up an 11-81a myself. Over all physically it is in pretty good nick. I'm after a schematic for this unit. Could someone please send me a copy it would be greatly appreciated.

PS.. I've also just picked up an 11-60 which I would also appreciate a schematic for if anyone can help.


Thanks.

I no longer need the drawings for the 11-81 and 11-60. Thanks.

Scraps,
any chance you can email me the 11-81 circuit?
Thanks
Ben

Circuit sent.

Many Thanks. Much appreciated

ben