5S126

 


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IMG_1270.JPG (1138578 bytes)

The Zenith 5S126 is a three band five tube superhetrodyne radio.  Chassis 5516 is shared with models 5-S-119, -126, -127, -150, -151 and 5-S-161.  The three bands cover frequencies from 540KHz to just over 19MHz.  This particular chassis was extensively worked on by others before arriving at my bench.  

There was a mix of original looking components with some modern 80's decade parts.  The first IF was replaced with a transformer that did not have the proper DC characteristics.   The volume potentiometer with dead spots was also replaced to help eliminate squealing (cleaning did not work).  A metal shield that covers the base of the first IF tube had cut into and shredded the 455KHz wave trap coil and some dial scale hardware was missing. Many components were just tacked into place or across existing parts.  The majority of the cloth covered wires were deteriorated and too long.  Those were replaced with 600 volt UL rated hook-up wire and routed to reduce motor boating.  

The unit motor boated on the low end of the Broadcast dial.  The metal shield across the base of the first IF tube prevents this from occurring.  I figure it is feedback from the tube into the antenna lead wire and 455khz trap.  Once this shield was reinstalled the random birdies and motor boating ceased. 

The cabinet was in fair condition.  The finished removed, a light stain applied to even out the hue.  Several coats of clear lacquer and several coats of toning lacquer was used to produce the final look.  Paste wax was applied and the the finish buffed by hand.  The dial scale plastic was in great shape.  The metal pan was removed wire brushed, primed and spray painted to better reflect the pilot lamps.  Two lamp shades were fabricated from the thin white Venetian Blind slats.  Those shades not only disperse the light but also protects the dial scale from lamp burns.  

All in all for a five tube set this is a surprisingly sensitive radio.  A short 1 foot lead picks up local broadcast stations.  A longer external wire antenna is required to pick up WWV here in western PA.

Please enjoy the pictures below.  Click on them to enlarge.

 

IMG_1169.JPG (810278 bytes) Chassis as received.  The round can on the right is the first IF transformer.  It was replaced with a unit designed for the 6A8 RF and 6K7 IF tubes. IMG_1170.JPG (941511 bytes) Cardboard gasket. IMG_1171.JPG (1173972 bytes) As recieved.  IMG_1173.JPG (778201 bytes) The dial scale looks new.  It is in great shape. IMG_1175.JPG (930642 bytes) The tear down begins.  The component locator on the Riders diagram 7-2 depict all square cans for the oscillator and antenna coils and IF transformers.  IMG_1176.JPG (731163 bytes)I suspect the Oscillator coil has been replaced or messed with.  It has a round can and too long lead wires  (upper left)
IMG_1181.JPG (386267 bytes) The damaged 455KHz trap coil.  With out this the 455 oscillator caused interference.  IMG_1182.JPG (688473 bytes) Hand repaired.  A lot of breaks had to be soldered and rewound on the coil. IMG_1187.JPG (791270 bytes) Inspecting and replacing some lead wires on the oscillator coil.  It was later heated treated with a heat gun to drive off moisture.   IMG_1189.JPG (945554 bytes) The band switch was cleaned, flushed and heated with a heat gun.  All coils were heat treated to drive off moisture.  IMG_1212.JPG (828039 bytes) Reconditioning of the dial scale reflector pan and pointers.  IMG_1218.JPG (351207 bytes) These are solid lacquer "Burn-In" sticks that are used to fill in missing spots of veneer.
IMG_1214.JPG (901043 bytes) Burn-in stick used to fill in missing veneer. IMG_1215.JPG (783002 bytes) 600 grit wet dry sand paper and odorless mineral spirits are used to... IMG_1213.JPG (839828 bytes) level and blend in the lacquer burn-in stick.  The grit was advanced to 900 and smoothed futher.  IMG_1267.JPG (929279 bytes) A new rubber U channel rubber dial glass gasket has been installed. That should protect and keep the glass from rattling like a license plate on a low rider..... IMG_1271.JPG (1018215 bytes) The corner molding has been toned a burnt ember.  IMG_1272.JPG (1021789 bytes) The flat panels have been toned with a lighter brown toning lacquer.
IMG_1273.JPG (915425 bytes)Three coats of clear lacquer then 000 steel wool buffed and coated two more times.  IMG_1274.JPG (979197 bytes) IMG_1276.JPG (589442 bytes) I can't help but enjoy the tube glow! IMG_1279.JPG (1067744 bytes) The knobs were cleaned with mineral spirits and sprayed with lacquer.  Felt washers installed to protect the cabinet from scratches. IMG_1282.JPG (1116206 bytes) The final finish was worked with paste wax applied with 0000 steel wool then buffed to a shine. IMG_1284.JPG (1297780 bytes) Speaker grill vacuumed before reinstallation. The speaker screws have been painted dark brown and the cut openings painted with black lacquer. 

 

 

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