This Silvertone extravaganza has been my absolute favorite project. I'm mentally preparing myself to rebuild a Dynaco SCA-35 that is both magnificent and horrendous. Meticulously worked on over its life, but the last owner seems to have spilled a beer on the chassis and then allowed it to mold, rust and corrode. You cleaned up bladder juice and kidney nectar with such gorgeous results, you've encouraged me to do the same.
the explosive switch removal ploy is no doubt a throwback to your former safecracking exploits uncle doug!! the end result is nothing short of miraculous ,puts a smile on my face every time ,,,
Uncle Doug, I patiently waited over the Christmas holidays for the final part of the Silvertone restore and I must say it was worth the wait. You certainly did not disappoint! I myself am a very crafty fellow in repairing, restoring, creating and such and I shamelessly declare, you never cease to amaze me with your exceptional quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Chevy motor is coming along quite nicely as well. I look forward to hearing it fire up in it's finished state. Keep the videos coming! ~Bub Byrne
Great work as always Doug! I have seen the reverb in a 1484 defeat a few very good amp techs... thus its reputation. Color me impressed! As always! Cheers!
Thanks so much, Joby. I have worked on four Silvertone reverbs recently and three of them are now working fine. The fourth, however, is living up to their reputation :(
Seeing the sad state of generalized incompetence and mediocrity in todays world ; you my friend, you reinstate my hope in humanity... I feel reassured that a bunch of other people share this point of view as per the many statements in your channels comments. Happy new year Uncle D and I hope you’ll treat us with many more of your entertaining\fun\fantastic videos.
I live close to the site where naugahyde was excreted from the bowels of the U.S. Rubber Company in Naugatuck, CT. It was a marvel of applied chemistry in its time, but driving through Naugatuck during those days was like taking a stroll through Satan’s colon after a long weekend of Jose Cuervo and Taco Bell. The stench watered the eyes and seared the nose. Thanks for all you do, Uncle Doug. Gary
You paint a pretty picture of the process, Gary. It sounds like a great location for a picnic. Thanks for the info......although now I feel guilty for using the product.
I don't understand much of the electronic stuff, but I love to see someone put so much work and love into old beauties and see the end result. From Behemoth to Beauty. Thanks for sharing.
Uncle Doug, we all love your videos. You really know your stuff. Say hello to Jack for me. I'm pretty close to 67 years old and I can appreciate an old timer like you that knows a whole lot more than I do.
Wow, that amp sounds killer. Love the detail on the hum and reverb repairs. Very much appreciate the whole series on this one. Thank you! Ernest in Lexington, KY
Ahhh.... Saturday morning and Uncle Doug... Great way to start the day... You have infinite patience and attention to detail, my friend... HAPPY NEW YEAR...!!!
I have some experience using the 1485 back in the late 60s. I used to borrow one for larger (mostly outdoor) gigs. The 120 watts gave me needed headroom that my 40 watt Fender couldn’t provide under the circumstances. I loved the amp but always hated that reverb! Splashy and thin! I used to pair that Silvertone with my Fender freestanding reverb and that puppy would rip! Great video. Brought back some good memories. Thanks.
Thank you Uncle Doug, this was so wonderful watching you work on this wonderful old amplifier. I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time. It’s so great that you take such steps to save these vintage pieces of gear. Buddy
Wow! You worked a miracle on that amp. I love your work with the attention to detail and the knowledge and skill to take an old amp like that and resurrect it to better than new is awsome. That's one of the sweetest sounding vintage apps I've ever heard. I wish that one day I could own a jem like that. Thanks for the great and informative videos, and saving music history .
Happy new year UD. Great work on the Silvertone restoration, must sound great in person with the six Jensen’s. You’ve inspired me to get back into guitar amps, and recently fixed up a tube amp kit I put together about ten years ago as a result! BTW, agree on the phenolic carb spacers. They work great here in roasting hot Australia as well! Thanks again UD.
The lurid expose' was wonderful! I just purchased a 1484 from Flea-Bay and it's enroute to Austin! I will be referencing much of your wise wisdom as I attempt the cosmetic restoration. I hope to make many amplifier savvy friends like yourself real soon. But in case I land myself into trouble, we might be paying you and the children a visit!
Uncle Doug, Another great restore/rebuild and presentation. Your attention to all of the details amazes me. Not to many would spend the time needed to make sure everything was correct and functioning as you have. I enjoy these videos greatly and I have a great love for vintage amplifiers and guitars. Some of the greatest sounds in the music world have come from these great vintage amps. Thanks for sharing with us and taking the time to explain everything as you go through the process of restoring these lost gems!
Just finished watching and that was an exercise touching all the bases. Workmanship and sound is excellent and troubleshooting intuitive! Turned out great!
What a gorgeous amp! I've been quite anxious to see part 3 and I see that everything turned out great. Great job, UD! Hope to see more Silvertone amp videos in the future. :-)
i know the little amps are your happy place... but it's a real treat to see you dig into the bigger amps! another great series... can't wait for what's next!
Gifts from across the pond - all for u', Uncle Doug! No one else could be more worthy of receiving the box from France! Thank you for sharing your knowledge. You set the goal and give us inspiration. Cheers from Mike in Fernwood, BC, CAN
No fancy botique pedal can make a sound like the mighty Silverton's reverb-- Quentin Tarantino needs it for his next film thank you from all the people who love these things, your knowledge and diligence are appreciated ( and your dry wit and furry friends)!
Happy New Year, Uncle Doug, and good to see this content. Both the amp and the engine are looking mighty fine. I got a chuckle for some reason when you mentioned that you had the engine on an engine stand. Back when I was a pup, we had two primary sources of auto repair information (excluding actual shop manuals, which were beyond the means of high schoolers' budgets,) Chilton and Petersons. We used to laugh about Petersons, because it seemed as though every procedure listed began with "Remove engine and place on engine stand." And I also fondly remember the J.C. Whitney catalogs back in the day. I helped a couple of friends replace VW engines (without an engine stand or engine lift, we just unbolted and picked them up) and you could pick up the rebuilt shortblocks for less than $100, plus shipping. Those were fun times.
Yes, they were, Ken, and I really miss them. I recall one bright summer day when I assisted in the removal of a SBC from a car.....without any engine hoist, just four young idiots grabbing onto chains and ropes and herniating themselves before realizing that none of us was strong enough to lift the $@%&?*&@ thing up over the fenders. Ah, the sweet memories of youth.
WFO!! LOL. I haven't heard that one before. What a great restoration!!! Thanks as always for sharing your insight as you work through all the issues and decisions you face during these adventures.
As me being one of the "tremolo hounds" you described out here on UA-cam I was not disappointed!! I hope to see part 4 when you recover the head to match the cab. Glad to see the kitties doing well also 😁 thanks again for another great video!
Always the best possible imaginable work, Doug. I anticipated this video installment for a long time. And I savor the anticipation I have for the unveiling of the almighty National Aztec 2-tone amp cover.
Thanks, Joel. This video was a bit long, but there will be plenty of room in a future video. Meanwhile, thanks again for the very nice Aztec amp cover.
@@UncleDoug But of course! I informed my lovely partner of your Chevy 350 outro in our rendezvous tonight. Always love the quality content and correspondence with you.
Wow! I have an old SEARS 1483 guitar amp that had been sitting in the back shed for 40 years. I bought it used in High School. You certainly made me see it's value. Per your example, I'll clean it up. Good videos.
Very nice video Doug. You bring history back to life. The reverb is interesting. I can see how the modern tank design won out. And that engine is looking very sharp!
Thanks, B55. The reverb is definitely "unique" :) I have since toned it down quite a bit and will probably post a short demo of the improved reverb in a future video.
Hi Doug, just wanted to comment on video. You never fail to amaze me with your vast knowledge you have on cars and amps. It's also amazing how many other people think you are totally awesome. It's got to be in the 100's. I could listen all day to your videos. There's very few people like you around. Hope you keep doing these videos. Truly amazing. Thanks from Michael Newell from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Nice work! Wow the 1485 is quiet with the footswitch shield and grounding jacks. Thanks for explaining dependable and moderate bias in detail, that is really helpful with irreplaceable old amplifiers. The new engine is looking great, really clean up top with the intake-mounted crankcase vent.
I'm always impressed at the extent that you're willing to go to. It's the difference between your average repair tech, and someone who really just wants to see it fixed. There's some stuff that is impractical to fix.... but with the assistance of others supplying pieces/parts, it makes things better.
Thanks, DK. This project could not have succeeded without the assistance of generous viewers. It's like a family meal, where every guest brings something special to the table.
Happy New Year Doug and Fur balls! Beautiful work as always! That Silvertone looks and sounds like art, a museum piece for sure! I'd park it in the corner of the living room and leave it. The reverb sounded like space echo, to cool! You could just pick up the Sears Catalog and order that BEAUTY delivered to your House! Oh those were the Days. You are the Amp Master! Peace.
Thanks so much, Dave......and how I mourn the loss of those times. Green stamps, black & white TV, my mother in her apron fixing dinner, and a garage band next door.
A good friend of mine had the smaller 50 watt 2X12 version of this amp back in the very early 70's. I saw the output transformer fail like the one shown here. It was a real spectacular failure. It was in a dark hall where we were playing a high school dance. All of a sudden there were flames shooting up from the back of the amplifier. It put on quite a show.
Pardon me while I pick my jaw up off the floor! Alarmingly beautiful and a technical masterpiece! The Auto-upholstry was a dandy choice and compliments the humble Danelectro roots of this brute. I was secretly hoping for a short tutorial on how to determine a replacement Gibbs or Accutronics four spring reverv unit. But I am a reverb hound. The SB Chevy motor looks sweet! Glad you are freeing up some ponies with headers. Much respect to you and the crew from Seattle.
Thanks so much, KM. I intend to experiment with other methods to achieve reverb in virtually any amp, with minimal space and intrusion.....so stay tuned.
Great wrap up to this series. I don't miss my old 1485 for some of the reasons you noted. It would serve as a boat anchor quite well. I have a Polytone Mega Brute now and that is all I want to lift. Very clean amp (Polytone) with a (meh) distortion. Thanks Uncle Doug!
@@UncleDoug I can only imagine how many hours you spent + your time skilfully editing into 2.5 hours, this labor of love took to complete. So many tantalizing moments you added the time to explain - re-cone for one and as the owner of a GM V6 your work in progress
Unc!! Really nice "smithing" on that old unit. I really appreciate your efforts! I used to be "WFO" but "I cant do sixty anymore" (Old song reference)!!
So much work Doug to get to this point..I must say, it's just a thing of beauty. Great job, and it could only have got to this stage with your expertise..Great videos, and so much info..Top job..Ed..U.K..😀
You’ve certainly done a lovely transformation job on that Silvertone amplifier: it both sounds, and looks brilliant Douglas. I had to smile to myself when I saw how you had utilised a length of UK type mains lead inside the speaker cabinet. Since the American mains lead colours are black, white, and green, I’d say brown, blue, and green/yellow serves the speaker wire colour code requirement most handsomely. Seeing the reverb tank with the long coiled spring brought back memories of long ago. When I was in my teens and early twenties, we apprentices made reverb tanks using a length of timber onto which a length of form was stuck. A 17”, 110 degree monochrome c.r.t coiled ground spring (about 14” long) was suspended in a wooden frame (stuck to the form), slightly above two mono crystal record player cartridges (with their styluses removed) screwed to the wooden frame, and they were fed into an ECC83 double triode valve which was used as an audio signal driver. Surprisingly, that ‘Heath Robinson’ type of arrangement worked quite well. Youth is most certainly wasted on the young LOL! Phil.
Thanks so much, Phil. So THAT'S why the insulation colors were so unusual :) Your Rube Goldberg reverb tanks sound really interesting.....obviously the product of youthful minds unfettered by the callousness of age.
Fantastic work - I really enjoy your problem analysis / correction work. As well, salvaging the cabinets that I may have used to start a campfire make me anxious to work on my GA-30 RVT that is suffering from 30 years of neglect. I hate panel rust.
Please consider supporting our advertising-free channel by checking the links in the video description. Thanks !!!
Sent you a little boost to get more catnip :P
You did indeed, Ron. Thanks so much.
"One of the main components of good engineering...is just thinkin' ahead." -wise words, good sir!
Thanks, FF. Simple rules are always the best :)
This Silvertone extravaganza has been my absolute favorite project. I'm mentally preparing myself to rebuild a Dynaco SCA-35 that is both magnificent and horrendous. Meticulously worked on over its life, but the last owner seems to have spilled a beer on the chassis and then allowed it to mold, rust and corrode. You cleaned up bladder juice and kidney nectar with such gorgeous results, you've encouraged me to do the same.
The removal of vile bodily fluids is only one of many skills required for a well rounded amp tech, Jules ;) Good luck with your project.
I love how you use words like extravaganza and behemoth in casual conversation 👍😃
Somebody has to :):)
Steve Blake I think we can do without the foul language, guys. 😝
I was thinking, he's going to say, ensconced. And then he did. lol
Robert Calk Jr. Sure... very good prediction. I was betting on installed. What do I know, though?! Ha ha 🤷🏻♂️
Casey seems be thriving! Lucky cat that has earned a good home.
We had her spayed yesterday, so she's a little under the weather today, but it was long overdue. Thanks, BB.
the explosive switch removal ploy is no doubt a throwback
to your former safecracking exploits uncle doug!! the end
result is nothing short of miraculous ,puts a smile on my
face every time ,,,
Indeed, William. We were once notorious for our ability to open any safe.....with or without dynamite :)
Electronics, guitars, kitties, and 350 beautification. Hell, it doesn't get any cooler than that, Uncle Doug!
Thanks, WUG......we try to please :)
Uncle Doug, I patiently waited over the Christmas holidays for the final part of the Silvertone restore and I must say it was worth the wait. You certainly did not disappoint! I myself am a very crafty fellow in repairing, restoring, creating and such and I shamelessly declare, you never cease to amaze me with your exceptional quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Chevy motor is coming along quite nicely as well. I look forward to hearing it fire up in it's finished state. Keep the videos coming! ~Bub Byrne
Thanks so much, Bub. Your positive comments mean a lot. We will :)
Great work as always Doug! I have seen the reverb in a 1484 defeat a few very good amp techs... thus its reputation. Color me impressed! As always! Cheers!
Thanks so much, Joby. I have worked on four Silvertone reverbs recently and three of them are now working fine. The fourth, however, is living up to their reputation :(
Seeing the sad state of generalized incompetence and mediocrity in todays world ; you my friend, you reinstate my hope in humanity... I feel reassured that a bunch of other people share this point of view as per the many statements in your channels comments.
Happy new year Uncle D and I hope you’ll treat us with many more of your entertaining\fun\fantastic videos.
Thanks so much, Adrien. We will continue to do our best to justify your faith in our endeavors.
Link Wray would be proud. KC is looking great.
Thanks so much, Nick :)
I live close to the site where naugahyde was excreted from the bowels of the U.S. Rubber Company in Naugatuck, CT. It was a marvel of applied chemistry in its time, but driving through Naugatuck during those days was like taking a stroll through Satan’s colon after a long weekend of Jose Cuervo and Taco Bell. The stench watered the eyes and seared the nose.
Thanks for all you do, Uncle Doug.
Gary
You paint a pretty picture of the process, Gary. It sounds like a great location for a picnic. Thanks for the info......although now I feel guilty for using the product.
Oh, man. I love that amp! What a great series here!
I don't understand much of the electronic stuff, but I love to see someone put so much work and love into old beauties and see the end result. From Behemoth to Beauty. Thanks for sharing.
Happy New Year, Doug!
You have restored a beast of an amp. Thank you for the amp therapy session and again for sharing your wisdom. :-)
Likewise, Randy. Thanks !!!
Yay I've been eagerly awaiting this installment! Hope you had a great holiday Uncle Doug.
Thanks, T. You too :)
Happy new year uncle Doug! Very creative use of the stereo jack for the speakers. Great video as usual, one of my favorite amps you’ve done.
Likewise, Grant. Thanks so much. I agree.....this one made me happy :)
What a beast! What a resto! Thanks Doug 'twas well worth the wait. All the best for the new year :)
You're welcome, O13......glad you liked it :)
Uncle Doug, we all love your videos. You really know your stuff. Say hello to Jack for me. I'm pretty close to 67 years old and I can appreciate an old timer like you that knows a whole lot more than I do.
Thanks so much, Glenn. I learned the majority of it fairly recently, so it's never too late to start.
Another masterful video from my favorite youtube source! Hope you had a great Christmas and have a wonderful new year! So happy to see you back.
Thanks, Thomas. Likewise on all the holiday good wishes.
"The fuse looked a little huskier" haha great stuff. Happy New Year
Thanks, Mark. At least it wasn't a .22 bullet :)
great to see ya today uncle doug :-) hope you have a great day!
Thanks, Ken. You, too.
Wow, that amp sounds killer. Love the detail on the hum and reverb repairs. Very much appreciate the whole series on this one.
Thank you! Ernest in Lexington, KY
You're welcome, Ernest.
Ahhh.... Saturday morning and Uncle Doug... Great way to start the day... You have infinite patience and attention to detail, my friend... HAPPY NEW YEAR...!!!
Thanks, Micheal. Likewise !!!
I have some experience using the 1485 back in the late 60s. I used to borrow one for larger (mostly outdoor) gigs. The 120 watts gave me needed headroom that my 40 watt Fender couldn’t provide under the circumstances. I loved the amp but always hated that reverb! Splashy and thin! I used to pair that Silvertone with my Fender freestanding reverb and that puppy would rip! Great video. Brought back some good memories. Thanks.
Our pleasure, Robert. The addition of the 6G15 Fender unit would indeed be a welcome improvement.
Beautiful restoration! As always, great tips along the way. The 350 is looking sharp.
Thanks, Andrew :)
Thank you Uncle Doug, this was so wonderful watching you work on this wonderful old amplifier. I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time. It’s so great that you take such steps to save these vintage pieces of gear. Buddy
Thanks so much, Buddy. It's all worth it when I hear from nice viewers, like you.
Wow! You worked a miracle on that amp. I love your work with the attention to detail and the knowledge and skill to take an old amp like that and resurrect it to better than new is awsome. That's one of the sweetest sounding vintage apps I've ever heard. I wish that one day I could own a jem like that. Thanks for the great and informative videos, and saving music history .
Wow, thanks so much, MR. We really appreciate your very nice comments.
Superb job Doug as always !!! LOVE IT - Very impressed with your playing as well... a good 1970's collage , perfect for that amp. - Ron
Thanks so much, Ron. The four-tune medley was courtesy of Jack and Ollie :)
Awesome! I’ve been waiting to see this amp completed . It’ll be around another 50 years now . Excellent work Uncle Doug:)
Thanks, Tim. Unfortunately, I won't be.....but hopefully, it will go to a good home :)
Great project. Loved watching the rebuild. Looking forward to the next project.
Thanks, N&A.
Happy New Year, Doug! Another amp resurrected - excellent job!!
Thanks so much, CM. Likewise :)
You are quite welcome Uncle Doug! Glad you'll be able to use them.
That was the best Christmas present I could have asked for, John. I've already used a bunch of the parts. Thanks again !!!
Thanks, Uncle Doug. I really enjoyed the videos.
You're welcome, Ideal.
Really enjoyed this vid,learning about old tube amps and in particular your old school 350,looks great!
Thanks, Ted :)
Wow really nice work with that engine. And the amp also. Thanks for sharing
You're welcome, Daniel.
I am in awe of your artistry. The amp is beautiful. The engine is also.
Wow, thanks, Mike.
Happy New Year and a belated Christmas greeting. Sure glad that KC is doing A-OK. Glad to see your videos !
Thanks, Tom :)
Hey, I'm in, under 100! Merry belated Christmas and have a happy healthy new year Doug.
Likewise, Joe :)
Great video!!! Awesome work at the amp and cabinet and the chevy as well! Can't wait to see more stuff from you. Greetings from Berlin/ Germany
Thanks, Marc, from the Sunny Southwest, USA :)
@Uncle Doug Yet another museum piece and the engine is looking great.
Thanks, Mr. B :)
Really great restoration of the Silvertone Uncle Doug you are the best.
Thanks, Larry :)
Happy new year UD. Great work on the Silvertone restoration, must sound great in person with the six Jensen’s. You’ve inspired me to get back into guitar amps, and recently fixed up a tube amp kit I put together about ten years ago as a result!
BTW, agree on the phenolic carb spacers. They work great here in roasting hot Australia as well! Thanks again UD.
You're welcome, Geno. We're glad the video inspired you. Best of luck with your project.
what an incredible restoration! I really love the tolex replacement Doug.
Thanks so much, John :)
DAMMIT now I really want to search around and find one of these silvertone amps.. this thing is a MONSTER of an amp. Very cool thanks Doug!
You're welcome, MS. Best of luck with your quest. They used to be quite common, but nowadays, the big ones are getting a little scarce.
The lurid expose' was wonderful! I just purchased a 1484 from Flea-Bay and it's enroute to Austin! I will be referencing much of your wise wisdom as I attempt the cosmetic restoration. I hope to make many amplifier savvy friends like yourself real soon. But in case I land myself into trouble, we might be paying you and the children a visit!
We're here if your need us, Gina. Good luck with your 1484 project.
Here's a belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours, Uncle Doug! Wishing you a rewarding 2019!
Thanks so much, MJ. Likewise :)
Uncle Doug, I really enjoyed this series. Your analysis and explanation is nothing short of amazing (as always)! What a pleasure.
Thanks so much, R&B......glad you enjoyed it.
Uncle Doug, Another great restore/rebuild and presentation. Your attention to all of the details amazes me. Not to many would spend the time needed to make sure everything was correct and functioning as you have. I enjoy these videos greatly and I have a great love for vintage amplifiers and guitars. Some of the greatest sounds in the music world have come from these great vintage amps. Thanks for sharing with us and taking the time to explain everything as you go through the process of restoring these lost gems!
Wow, you're quite welcome, Lynn. Thanks for all your very nice comments :)
Awesome! UD is here! Good things in UA-cam take longer. Totally worth the wait! Thanks for the video UD!
You're welcome, K :)
Just finished watching and that was an exercise touching all the bases. Workmanship and sound is excellent and troubleshooting intuitive! Turned out great!
Thanks so much, PM :)
I opened my browser this morning and a new Uncle Doug video was waiting for me! Made my day, thanks to Uncle Doug, Jack, and KC. Great series here!
You're welcome, Richard. We're glad you enjoy our work :)
Great restoration. You are a true craftsman. Really nice to see your new cat looking so well.
Thanks three times, Martin :)
What a gorgeous amp! I've been quite anxious to see part 3 and I see that everything turned out great. Great job, UD! Hope to see more Silvertone amp videos in the future. :-)
Thanks so much, WwM. By coincidence, a video featuring a 1474 is in the works.
Fantastic! Looking forward to it. 👍
i know the little amps are your happy place... but it's a real treat to see you dig into the bigger amps! another great series... can't wait for what's next!
You're right, Joe, and yet I really enjoyed working on this big rascal. Now I'm tending to eye the large amps too :)
Another beauty, Uncle. Most enjoyable. Thanks for all and keep rock-n-rollin’ 🤙
Thanks so much, D. Will do :)
A repair that made the amp better than it ever was!
Also, I'm buying a 10" Jensen for a single ended 6v6 amp I'm building, those sound amazing
Gifts from across the pond - all for u', Uncle Doug! No one else could be more worthy of receiving the box from France! Thank you for sharing your knowledge. You set the goal and give us inspiration. Cheers from Mike in Fernwood, BC, CAN
Thanks so much, Mike :)
I finally got to watch it tonight. Nice work. This was fun to watch.
Thanks, Marshall.
i love the workmanship! thanks for the videos!
You're welcome, Mark.
No fancy botique pedal can make a sound like the mighty Silverton's reverb-- Quentin Tarantino needs it for his next film thank you from all the people who love these things, your knowledge and diligence are appreciated ( and your dry wit and furry friends)!
It would also be suitable for Freddy Kreuger soundtracks ;) Glad you enjoyed it, Garyy.
Happy New Year, Uncle Doug, and good to see this content. Both the amp and the engine are looking mighty fine.
I got a chuckle for some reason when you mentioned that you had the engine on an engine stand. Back when I was a pup, we had two primary sources of auto repair information (excluding actual shop manuals, which were beyond the means of high schoolers' budgets,) Chilton and Petersons. We used to laugh about Petersons, because it seemed as though every procedure listed began with "Remove engine and place on engine stand."
And I also fondly remember the J.C. Whitney catalogs back in the day. I helped a couple of friends replace VW engines (without an engine stand or engine lift, we just unbolted and picked them up) and you could pick up the rebuilt shortblocks for less than $100, plus shipping. Those were fun times.
Yes, they were, Ken, and I really miss them. I recall one bright summer day when I assisted in the removal of a SBC from a car.....without any engine hoist, just four young idiots grabbing onto chains and ropes and herniating themselves before realizing that none of us was strong enough to lift the $@%&?*&@ thing up over the fenders. Ah, the sweet memories of youth.
Both the Silvertone and the 350 look amazing! Love those finned aluminum valve covers.
Thanks, RCG.
Dr, Frankenstein has nothing on you, bringing your lifeless hulk back to life!! Well done
Thanks, Big Joe. Now if I can just stop it from saying "Fire.....bad !!!"
Smoke . . . Good !
Great attention to detail. I really enjoy your highly instructive videos.
Thanks, Bill. We're glad you enjoy them :)
WFO!! LOL. I haven't heard that one before. What a great restoration!!! Thanks as always for sharing your insight as you work through all the issues and decisions you face during these adventures.
Thanks so much, SS. It used to be a popular term and is long overdue for a revival :) You're welcome.
Nice work on the amp and engine both. You are a great craftsman.
Thanks, Kevin :)
As me being one of the "tremolo hounds" you described out here on UA-cam I was not disappointed!! I hope to see part 4 when you recover the head to match the cab. Glad to see the kitties doing well also 😁 thanks again for another great video!
Thanks, Scott. You're welcome :)
Very nice Uncle Doug, a pleasure as always
Thanks, Scott :)
Always the best possible imaginable work, Doug. I anticipated this video installment for a long time. And I savor the anticipation I have for the unveiling of the almighty National Aztec 2-tone amp cover.
Thanks, Joel. This video was a bit long, but there will be plenty of room in a future video. Meanwhile, thanks again for the very nice Aztec amp cover.
@@UncleDoug But of course! I informed my lovely partner of your Chevy 350 outro in our rendezvous tonight.
Always love the quality content and correspondence with you.
Likewise, Joel. We enjoy your comments and input.
Very unique sounding amp, the reverb is something else on this amp to say the least. Well done as always Uncle Doug!
Thanks, PC. I intend to do some tinkering to tame the wild reverb :)
Unique is a kind way of putting it.
Amazing work, Doug! Thanks!
You're welcome, Robert.
Great video series Doug. Many thanks.
You're welcome, SS :)
Wow! I have an old SEARS 1483 guitar amp that had been sitting in the back shed for 40 years. I bought it used in High School. You certainly made me see it's value. Per your example, I'll clean it up. Good videos.
Thanks, Daniel. By all means, get it out, clean it up, and see if it still works.
Unbelievable! Great Job Doug!
Thanks, Mark.
WOW thanks for all the knowledge you share Doug!!!!!!
You're welcome, MS.
Great work Uncle Doug !!
Thanks, SP.
Very nice video Doug. You bring history back to life. The reverb is interesting. I can see how the modern tank design won out. And that engine is looking very sharp!
Thanks, B55. The reverb is definitely "unique" :) I have since toned it down quite a bit and will probably post a short demo of the improved reverb in a future video.
Hi Doug, just wanted to comment on video. You never fail to amaze me with your vast knowledge you have on cars and amps. It's also amazing how many other people think you are totally awesome. It's got to be in the 100's. I could listen all day to your videos. There's very few people like you around. Hope you keep doing these videos. Truly amazing. Thanks from Michael Newell from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Wow.....thanks so much, Michael. It's great to hear some good old fashioned flattery and support once in a while :)
You sir have both golden hands and mouth. Chapeau bas!
Thanks, Λογος :)
One more incredible restoration under your belt sir!
Thanks, David.
Great to watch your troubleshooting techniques.
Thanks, Mike.
Nice work! Wow the 1485 is quiet with the footswitch shield and grounding jacks. Thanks for explaining dependable and moderate bias in detail, that is really helpful with irreplaceable old amplifiers. The new engine is looking great, really clean up top with the intake-mounted crankcase vent.
Thanks, Jon :) You really don't have to roast your tubes to get good tone.
Great to see you posting again, Sting
Thanks, Sting.
I'm always impressed at the extent that you're willing to go to. It's the difference between your average repair tech, and someone who really just wants to see it fixed. There's some stuff that is impractical to fix.... but with the assistance of others supplying pieces/parts, it makes things better.
Thanks, DK. This project could not have succeeded without the assistance of generous viewers. It's like a family meal, where every guest brings something special to the table.
Happy New Year Doug and Fur balls! Beautiful work as always! That Silvertone looks and sounds like art, a museum piece for sure! I'd park it in the corner of the living room and leave it. The reverb sounded like space echo, to cool! You could just pick up the Sears Catalog and order that BEAUTY delivered to your House! Oh those were the Days. You are the Amp Master! Peace.
Thanks so much, Dave......and how I mourn the loss of those times. Green stamps, black & white TV, my mother in her apron fixing dinner, and a garage band next door.
That was an excellent lurid expose! The amp sounds great- makes me wish I had a nice old vintage amp...
Thanks, Pyro. Check your local Craigslist, yard sales, etc.
A good friend of mine had the smaller 50 watt 2X12 version of this amp back in the very early 70's. I saw the output transformer fail like the one shown here. It was a real spectacular failure. It was in a dark hall where we were playing a high school dance. All of a sudden there were flames shooting up from the back of the amplifier. It put on quite a show.
I'll bet the crowd loved it, DeWitt. This is probably how pyrotechnics shows, like those used by Kiss, originated :)
Pardon me while I pick my jaw up off the floor! Alarmingly beautiful and a technical masterpiece! The Auto-upholstry was a dandy choice and compliments the humble Danelectro roots of this brute.
I was secretly hoping for a short tutorial on how to determine a replacement Gibbs or Accutronics four spring reverv unit. But I am a reverb hound.
The SB Chevy motor looks sweet! Glad you are freeing up some ponies with headers.
Much respect to you and the crew from Seattle.
Thanks so much, KM. I intend to experiment with other methods to achieve reverb in virtually any amp, with minimal space and intrusion.....so stay tuned.
Good you see/hear ya !!
Likewise, Bob :)
Good job, Uncle Doug. I will use shorting 1/4 input jacks on Ch.2 and shield the foot switch input.
Thanks. Try it and see if it doesn't help, Don.
"Pretty darn cavern....." has me laughing on the floor 😂. Thanks for this great series uncle. Very elegant restoration!
I think you must agree that it did sound pretty darned cavernous, Ignacio :) You're welcome.
Great wrap up to this series. I don't miss my old 1485 for some of the reasons you noted. It would serve as a boat anchor quite well. I have a Polytone Mega Brute now and that is all I want to lift. Very clean amp (Polytone) with a (meh) distortion. Thanks Uncle Doug!
Another amazing project completed, thanks for your time, effort and of course, sharing. Nic
You're welcome, Nic.
@@UncleDoug I can only imagine how many hours you spent + your time skilfully editing into 2.5 hours, this labor of love took to complete. So many tantalizing moments you added the time to explain - re-cone for one and as the owner of a GM V6 your work in progress
Thanks, Nic. The editing and shooting of transitional scenes just for Part 3 took a full two days of work. It was a huge undertaking.
Amazing restoration!
Thanks, Bill :)
Unc!! Really nice "smithing" on that old unit. I really appreciate your efforts! I used to be "WFO" but "I cant do sixty anymore" (Old song reference)!!
Thanks, Abe. Me too :)
Awesome work Doug!
Thanks. Glad you liked it, Ken :)
So much work Doug to get to this point..I must say, it's just a thing of beauty. Great job, and it could only have got to this stage with your expertise..Great videos, and so much info..Top job..Ed..U.K..😀
Wow.....thanks, Ed. We really appreciate your kind comments.
@@UncleDoug You're welcome Doug, look forward to more of your fab videos..Stay safe.
You’ve certainly done a lovely transformation job on that Silvertone amplifier: it both sounds, and looks brilliant Douglas.
I had to smile to myself when I saw how you had utilised a length of UK type mains lead inside the speaker cabinet. Since the American mains lead colours are black, white, and green, I’d say brown, blue, and green/yellow serves the speaker wire colour code requirement most handsomely.
Seeing the reverb tank with the long coiled spring brought back memories of long ago. When I was in my teens and early twenties, we apprentices made reverb tanks using a length of timber onto which a length of form was stuck. A 17”, 110 degree monochrome c.r.t coiled ground spring (about 14” long) was suspended in a wooden frame (stuck to the form), slightly above two mono crystal record player cartridges (with their styluses removed) screwed to the wooden frame, and they were fed into an ECC83 double triode valve which was used as an audio signal driver. Surprisingly, that ‘Heath Robinson’ type of arrangement worked quite well.
Youth is most certainly wasted on the young LOL!
Phil.
Thanks so much, Phil. So THAT'S why the insulation colors were so unusual :) Your Rube Goldberg reverb tanks sound really interesting.....obviously the product of youthful minds unfettered by the callousness of age.
Fantastic work - I really enjoy your problem analysis / correction work. As well, salvaging the cabinets that I may have used to start a campfire make me anxious to work on my GA-30 RVT that is suffering from 30 years of neglect. I hate panel rust.
Thanks so much, RF. Best of luck with your own project(s).