1-R-81

RCA 1R81

This is an RCA 1-R-81 chassis RC1102B or C. This radio has coupling and electrolytic capacitors replaced. But it poorly received only one FM station when received. The bakelite exterior is in fantastic shape and needs no attention. I proceeded with a complete restoration including all previous replaced parts. The old caps are identified with a red mark.

I began this restoration first with a dim bulb test. Then all tubes tested including a spare set from the owner. All non mica or ceramic capacitors, carbon composition resistors, lamps, speaker gasket and power cord set were then replaced. Before the alignment I initially powered up the unit with a DBT. It received well on both AM and FM. With the alignment completed the radio receives very well on both FM and AM. An external antenna connected to the #1 screw pulled in distant weak AM station at night. The less powerful FM stations also benefits from an external antenna connected to screws #2 and 3. I used a random wire on the FM. An FM dipole (like this one from Radioshack) would help a lot.

This radio has a pretty dial scale. It has a symmetry that looks balanced and illuminates gently in a dimmed room. Please see the pictures below.

		The right upper and lower cardboard retaining tabs need glued.
		That is a replacement Audio Output transformer. All original yellow caps received a red dot before I started replacing parts.	The yellow caps are not original equipment.		RF deck with covered underside. AM/FM IF leaves this section.
All resistor replaced with new Carbon Comp resistors. My little rule for part handling over 18 MHz.	All new caps and resistors installed.
Old gasket.	New speaker gasket. It seals acoustic leakage that deteriorates frequency response.	Glued torn corners.	Wood Glue and clamps.	Glued down loose stickers too (lower left only).	I like the night shots.

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