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 STC Capehart Cabinate radiogram Garrad RC 210
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 Return to top of page · Post #: 1 · Written at 6:20:51 PM on 1 February 2025.
Goldie Locks's Gravatar
 Location: Rockhampton, QLD
 Member since 1 February 2025
 Member #: 2705
 Postcount: 3

Hello All.
I am new here. I have aquired the above radiogram which I am trying to get going again. I am now in the process of some repairs. I am starting with routing the string that moves the station selector. My question is, how long is the string to be and the best way of routing it around the selector? Thank you.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 2 · Written at 6:31:11 PM on 1 February 2025.
MonochromeTV's avatar
 Location: Melbourne, VIC
 Member since 20 September 2011
 Member #: 1009
 Postcount: 1235

RC210 changer sounds like the later model.

There are 3 main Capehart models + variants:

A7211
A8551
A8471

Look for a label or sticker.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 3 · Written at 7:23:14 PM on 1 February 2025.
Goldie Locks's Gravatar
 Location: Rockhampton, QLD
 Member since 1 February 2025
 Member #: 2705
 Postcount: 3

Thanks for the reply. The sticker that is inside has about all gone. Would some pictures help?


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 4 · Written at 9:01:03 PM on 1 February 2025.
Marcc's avatar
 Location: Wangaratta, VIC
 Member since 21 February 2009
 Member #: 438
 Postcount: 5498

I pretty much have only ever measured the dial string if the info is available and that's not often. Last one I repaired didn't even have a schematic.

If you have the old one, you might have a hope otherwise if the spring has sprung, Or vanished an Industrial supply is liable to have them. That's where I get mine.

You will have to work out how many turns on the drum are needed to let off the cordage when the gang is closed and how much is need to take it up onto the drum going the other way and in its correct direction across the dial, set pointer is last. Blue tac can be your friend.
The driver is usually 2-3 turns it could be wound "S" or "Z" . That governs which way the drum moves; Anti-clock wise, or clockwise when you turn the shaft. Initially make a loop to put on one hook. Once that' s worked out you can cut tie the cordage to the spring.

If you can understand pulleys that's a great help & you can often work it out on paper.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 5 · Written at 2:44:09 PM on 7 March 2025.
Goldie Locks's Gravatar
 Location: Rockhampton, QLD
 Member since 1 February 2025
 Member #: 2705
 Postcount: 3

Hi again, Thank for the reply. My next job is to replace all the capacitors. Readings with an ESR meter is very high. Where would I be able to purchase these capacitors? All the capacitors seem to have a greasy coating on them, is that normal? Thank you.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 6 · Written at 5:25:15 PM on 7 March 2025.
Robbbert's avatar
 Location: Hill Top, NSW
 Member since 18 September 2015
 Member #: 1801
 Postcount: 2141

I don't see any photos, but if the capacitors are a dull yellow colour with a waxy feel, probably branded Ducon, then replace them all.

Suitable replacements may be found at Jaycar, although the appearance will be totally different.

Square dark brown capacitors (Mica type) will most likely be ok.

Electrolytic low voltage capacitors should be replaced. Electrolytic high voltage capacitors might be able to be reformed, as replacements are relatively expensive.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 7 · Written at 8:22:45 PM on 7 March 2025.
Fred Lever's Gravatar
 Location: Toongabbie, NSW
 Member since 19 November 2015
 Member #: 1828
 Postcount: 1345

The most important thing about replacement capacitors is the DC voltage rating!
Jaycar did carry 250 volt and 630 volt DC types but mainly their ranges are for "transistor radio" use like green caps and rated at 100 volt. Do not use those!
Nowadays I buy "valve capacitors" both poly and electrolytic intended for valve radios on line.
Just hop onto Ebay and check out stuff available and at reasonable cost.
Such suppliers have 600 volt electros from 8μF upwards.
You would be lucky to find any staff at a Jaycar store that had a clue about valve equipment.
Fred.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 8 · Written at 9:00:54 PM on 7 March 2025.
Robbbert's avatar
 Location: Hill Top, NSW
 Member since 18 September 2015
 Member #: 1801
 Postcount: 2141

The greencap (50v, 100v) can be used in the AGC circuit, around the volume control, and as cathode bypass. I use the red 630v ones for anything connected to HT.

Carl probably still sells suitable caps, although I haven't seen him post for a while.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 9 · Written at 11:19:21 PM on 11 March 2025.
Tallar Carl's avatar
 Location: Latham, ACT
 Member since 21 February 2015
 Member #: 1705
 Postcount: 2201

Robbbert I'm still here and yes my email is open . I supply the needed caps.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 10 · Written at 8:32:15 AM on 12 March 2025.
Marcc's avatar
 Location: Wangaratta, VIC
 Member since 21 February 2009
 Member #: 438
 Postcount: 5498

It looks like that is full of waxed paper caps, if so they will leak like a sieve. I don't bother testing them now days as the possibility of finding a good one is rare. As far as electrolytics are concerned: Replace all.

As far as parts are concerned, I fix commercially and inventory is money. Just replace all paper caps with 630V ones and I principally stock 1Watt resistors.

The name is not much of a reference; It will have a number. If the rectifier is 5Y3 then use 600V filter caps on the High Tension.

Many purveyors of parts, do not have a parts range suited to valve radios. That also applies to test equipment.


 
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