Hi Guy's ,

I have a AWA 461MA and the transformer is burnt out. Any ideas what I could replace it with? I don't mind fitting in a modern type.

Any help greatly appreciated.

Cheers,

Steve

Ideally it should be replaced with a transformer from the same model, though it is possible that it is the same transformer fitted to other Radiolas and some of the 1940s Radiolettes. The transformer from the Radiolette 516M looks like it'll fit physically but you will need to check all the secondary voltages for both sets to make sure it is compatible.

Also, determine why it burned out.

The same power transformer, Part No. 25831 is used in these models: 449MA, 467MA, 495MA & B27.

So you might want to look for a wreck for spare parts.

^ How did you figure that out so quick MonochromeTV?

It appears to have an internal short. I would like to replace it with a new or modern one. I use this in my workshop at work so it's on all day. Don't want it to burn the building down!!!

AWA transformers from this era do occasionally cook themselves. I've had three or four go in the last couple of years, one from a radio I used to use every day in my office at work though all the radios were restored so there was no overloading.

The enamel coating on the wire used in the coils is very thin and it is wound on to the bobbin fairly tightly to help stop vibration caused by the mains frequency. The coils are dipped in varnish and then baked to help with this even more though the varnish doesn't go right through, leaving the coil's integrity at the mercy of the enamel on the wire. Sometimes this just isn't good enough for the long term.

How did you figure that out so quick MonochromeTV?

I have some of my AWA service details on a spreadsheet which includes various fields such as model, valve line-up, I.F and other notes. It is simply a matter of filtering the AWA models with the same valve line-up and then checking the service sheets parts list.

This particular power transformer was used in various 4 valve AWA, Hotpoint & Westinghouse models from the mid to late 1950's.

I can rewind your original transformer if you want to go that way. See my ad in the HRSA Radio Waves or email me, I would be glad to help. Cheers David.

^ Another great candidate for the services page on this site!

Yes.

Radio Fan, if you want to follow with GTC's suggestion can you please e-mail me your preferred e-mail address and/or mobile number and a brief summary of the services you offer and I will add an entry to the Services Directory for you.

Hi radio fan, I'll take up your off I think. I'll send you an email.

Cheers,

Steve

I checked the output from another AWA Radiola, looks like two taps at 195v and one at 6.5.