1974 Fender Deluxe Reverb Restoration, Part 2: Completion and Testing
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- Опубліковано 1 жов 2024
- This is Part 2 of a two-part video series featuring the restoration of a nice, original 1974 Fender Deluxe Reverb Amp. In this video, circuit repairs, tube biasing, reassembly, and sound testing of the amp's features are described, as well as restoration hints and suggestions that you may find useful. For good continuity, be sure to watch the Part 1 video first.
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Thanks for watching !!!
Rusty is quite pleased that you noticed his great contributions to our videos. He is a wonderful dog, nearly 16 years old, and he still chases the tennis ball for as long as you are willing to throw it. He also has a cat-sister, but she prefers to sleep on the couch in between meals and is far too lazy to chase anything, let alone a nasty old tennis ball. It's a lot like having a teenager around the house.......again.
I guess by now, old Rusty has long since bid you "Happy Trails." I feel for ya ...
Thanks, CD. I do occasionally sell one....or two, generally just to make room for new ones. If I ever croak, my wife will probably have a garage sale and sell them all for $10 apiece (she doesn't share my enthusiasm for old amps), so keep an eye on the obituary page...:)))
I will be happy to take any Gibson GA-40T's off your hands ... !
That’s funny.
My crazy old cat sleeps all day and then, just as we are going to bed, she starts tearing around the house like a lunatic......again, much like a teenager :))
I love your videos. Thank you for sharing the experience and joy of "amp archaeology" with the world! :)
+Rullywow Industries You're welcome, RI.....glad you enjoy the videos. Thanks for watching and commenting :)
Being "stuck" in the Virgin Islands must be a real "nightmare" :)) I went scuba diving in the BVI many years ago and it is a magnificent place.....you lucky devil!! Re the drilling of a stainless steel chassis, it is indeed one of life's greatest miseries.....somewhere between tax audits and root canals.....but the wiring is so much fun that it (almost) makes up for it. I'll keep an eye out for a silverface PR, and if I find one, maybe I can deliver it personally :))
Thanks, BT. After the chassis tune up, the reverb and tremolo are both really stout.....and, as a wise man once said, "You can never have too much reverb". :)))
What's really fun, is to take the output from the reverb tank, and via a couple of cable translators (sort of like one of those "Illudim Q36 Space Modula-TORS"), plug it into the NORMAL channel and roll off most of the bass, run up the treble and bright switch if you like, and have some really clean, clear reverb coming out of that tank.
scifi.stackexchange.com/questions/149563/when-was-the-illudium-q-36-space-modulator-first-depicted
I have not tested a Greta, but they have a decent rating on Musician's Friend. Cost: $160, Power: 2W, Speaker: 4", Tubes: 12AX7 and 12AT7. For a little more money ($299), I would prefer the Fender Excelsior which has 13W and a 15" speaker, push-pull 6V6's, two 12AX7's, and a nice Tremolo. I have heard an Excelsior and was very impressed. I have no idea how they can produce this amp for such a low price (China). You need to check one out before buying a Greta to see which one suits you better.
Greetings, AR. I don't work on solid state amps, but I understand that the L5 is a real gem. Any amp preferred by BB King and Ty Tabor (check out "Over my Head" by King's X) has got to be good !!! The guitar I use in the workshop is a 1979 Matsumoku Vantage Performer VS-695 (it is pictured in the opening of the recent "Shock Hazards" video) with MMK-45 pickups. I rescued it from a pawn shop in lousy condition several years ago, and like a stray dog.....it ended up being a great "pet".
Yup! It’s that sound.
Thanks, Frank. It did turn out to be a very nice amp with minimal repairs.....more like an automotive 'tune up'. Good luck with your DR repair job. Which rectifier does it use? 5U4 or GZ34? I'm a firm believer in the GZ34.....it draws 1.1A less filament voltage, provides slow start up, with a little extra plate voltage (what a deal !), and thus might reduce the load/heat in the new PT. A re-bias is generally advisable to compensate for the increased PV.....but you probably already know this ;))
Thanks, SS. It actually was pictured in the opening of the "Shock Hazards" video I posted recently. See the response to AR (above) for details. It's an inexpensive guitar (the harsh workshop environment is too risky for expensive guitars) but has the hottest, nastiest pickups in this sector of the universe. It came from a pawn shop in rough shape, but, with a lot of work (I also work on guitars), it turned into a real gem.
Hi Doug, I love your videos. One suggestion: please tune your guitar!
Thanks, JC, but do you realize just what a waste of time it is for you to tell me this, several years after the video was posted? Your comment would have been much more effective.....and appreciated......if the second sentence had been deleted.
Uncle Doug No offense intended.
Thanks, JC.
Thanks so much, F86. I wish you did live in my neighborhood....at least then, ONE of my neighbors wouldn't be giving me the "evil eye" over all the "noise" coming from my workshop...:)
I love the Blues Jr. and have owned several. The Reverb is great, it's all-tube (increasingly rare with modern "tube" amps), 12" speaker, and the EL-84's are similar to 6V6's. The tweed adds about $70 to the price. I would hunt down a good, used one and save a bunch. The Blues Deluxe is a whole different beast.....bigger, heavier, louder (40W), and almost $800. I had one and couldn't use it at home at any volume level greater than 1 1/2 without the risk of divorce. For home use, I prefer the Jr.
I have no experience with Marshall amps, Frank, but I'll take your word for it. The GZ34 really is a great upgrade for these 5U4 amps.....I hope more people find out about this. However, they do need to re-check the bias due to the increased plate voltages resulting from the more efficient GZ34. Thanks for posting !!
You're right, I forgot about the Kustom amp being solid state (and requiring a lot of work). If an ailing L5 showed up at the workshop door, I would try to repair it.....out of respect for BB :) You're also right about the inadequacies of my tiny little camera microphone and the alterations associated with uploading to YT. I can tell you that the sound you hear on the videos is often quite different from what you would hear "live". I always try to verbally describe the "live" sound accurately.
MERRY CHRISTMAS 2019....i found a deluxe reverb for 150$....it makes sound and has the pedal...i was lost with it until i remembered you and your efforts....i have much more confidence having watched your videos.
i wish i could explain how much it meant to me to watch and listen to your work on that 74 silverface. i really ain't much on electronic know how...
but when the box functioned at all and with the trem and reverb working,,,,i knew i had got lucky....it has the stock pedal,,,,,the blind squirrel finds a nut again............i'm 67 and don't try to contact anyone on youtube,,,,,,,,but if you could spare a minute or two to tell me anything about this fender amp i have,,,,you will save me hours of self instruction and fact finding before i turn it over to anyone who professes to have correct knowledge and experience.
do you get new notices are is this message just ina line from 6 years ago?
i promise to not grieve you with dumb questions,,,i am looking for a few heads up when i do get into this amp,,,in a couple of days........
i hope i didn't bore you and i need some one looking over my shoulder on this thing........i think it might be my best acquisition of my life,,,,,please uncle doug,,,,,i want to do this right,,,,,,,,,i need your help.......
Congratulations on a great find, Charles. I have posted all that I know about this (and similar) models in several videos currently on YT. I suggest that you study all the videos I have posted on Fender circuit repair and learn what you can from them. It's just not feasible to verbally describe every possible step via e-mail, so I hope the videos are sufficient. You are welcome to ask a few specific questions in this format if necessary. Good luck.
Rusty says, "Back at ya, Ben". I tend to believe they are are more like 6L6's than 6V6's.....they literally pegged my tube tester. I'm actually glad of this, since 450V would probably be a bit harsh on a vintage 6V6. The volume and tone are excellent too !!! :)
They look like Russian 6L6s (not the GCs).
Beautiful. I love the fender reverb sound
+Elsif Thanks :)
lol, Im stuck down here in the virgin islands.. no tube amps to be had so I built a 65 Princeton Reverb clone from a weber kit. Really hated drilling their stainless steel chassis. Came out pretty good but if you ever hear of a reasonable priced silverface PR .. give me a shout!
You're welcome, Daniel. Thanks for watching !!!
"Wow, get out the surfboards" LOL.
Surf's up, Tony :)
would be nice to hear it just once on 10 and hit and a power chord..2nd fret 5th and 4th string....roaaarrrrrr....lol.. might be kind of loud though and not good for speaker...etc.. ......... I love the sound of my Gibson Skylark 6V6 single ended on 10 especially with overdrive....very clear distortion rings with hamomics ,..made great recordings...something about 6V6 tube...
I tend to take it easy on the vintage amps and speakers, but every once in a while, it is fun to crank them up a bit.
I have a 74 identical to yours I use it for all my gigs.I absolutely love this amp.
It's a good one, Phil......Thanks for your input :)
That's a great compliment.....thanks, JZ.
You're welcome, Dan. Thanks for watching.
A great video! I have this model amp. Nice to see the inside workings. What is your opinion on the use ability of the AC electrical outlet mounted on the back panel? I have never used it. Could I plug in an effects pedal? Thanks for the video postings!
Thanks, Monte. Yes, if the pedal uses 120VAC.
I still love your guitar playing sir and great job on this wonderful Fender Amp.!
Thanks twice, David. You are too kind :)
Reverb channel on a 69 pro reverb vintage hums when turned up past 3. I’ve tried everything. Any ideas. Thank you in advance. Your channel is wonderful.
Check the shielding of the reverb cables and the groundng of the tank.
Instant replay of the seventies, Doug, ( all our yesterdays).......magic...............Les.
+Les Johnson Thanks, Les......glad you enjoyed it :)
I will....thanks, Ben.
Hello! I just picked up a 74 Deluxe Reverb. It has a nasty high pitch squeal/raddle that gets worse with volume. Problem persists after checking and changing tubes, removed speaker I noticed cracks on the suspension ring so I tried a separate speaker but the problem persists. Not tubes or the speaker.
Update, found a blown capacitor mallory 16 mfd 450v 021030 235-7945 E is the write up on it but couldn’t find it online.
Have you tried tapping the tubes to see if one is microphonic? All such caps are available from Antique Electronic Supply. You can go up to 20uf with no problems.
I know this is an old post. I have a question as I don't have a Fender amp, I have Marshall 20th Anniversary Series JCM 800 Full Stack w/white tolex, and I have two other DIY Marshall builds using the same 2204 schematic. Question: Can you explain the (green, red, and brown) wires that appear to have a 20 AWG White wire wrapped around them and grounded behind the Trem/Verb control knobs, and the other set similarly wrapped behind the 1st channel Tone knobs? What are these wires AND are they being shielded to ground with this technique? I only found this channel recently but I have watched perhaps 35% to 50% of your posted videos - very informative. I am considering rewiring my builds based on much of your teachings - maybe tweak values here and there. I may also mod one with a Tube rectifier to see if I get a better feel when playing my guitar leads - My PTs have the 5v winding. Thanks for all your information. :)
The wrapping with a white wire is, as you suggested, a method of shielding a group of wires to reduce EM interference. It's cheaper and easier than using shielded cable for each wire.
Hi UD, I just read all the comments, below. But I didn't catch what you had to fix on the Reverb..... I saw the Tremolo needed 3 caps... Thanks!
It's been several years, but as I recall, all it needed was to have a footswitch plugged into the chassis jack.
Uncle Dougie, take it from a perfectionist/anal-retentive, obsessive-compulsive, detail-oriented control freak...you restored that amp beautifully. I may have attempted to clean the grille fabric but your treatment of the rest of the project was spot-on, imo. (Didn't catch a comment as to whether you attempted a grille cleanup.) The slight corrosion and fretting wear here and there add up to "patina" - that highly-prized quality of "survivor" pieces such as this one. Well done, well done, well done. :-)
Wow, thanks so much, Bruce. We agree that good, honest wear and aging are actually beneficial to an amp. If you overdue it, they become more "reissue" than original.
Actually Walk Don't Run was a Ventures tune and they never were a surf band. They did an album in 63 called Surfing because of the surfing craze started by the Beach Boys who didn't suff.
The Shadows weren't a " surf band " either. 😁
Thanks for the input, Larry.
@Uncle Doug - you are either: the Most Restrained (detached) Channeler in YT OR: the shrooms are finally kicking in. *snurk* - the bit on the dude who pretended to be surprised...dude.
Maybe a combination of both, B.
(deep breath) - so I walked to the Depot just one-point-nine miles away to purchase my very first (working) soldering iron and solder (no silver, just the lead - Keith Richards) and I stepped to the gate - "no way" I said at ten-oh-one in the a.m. and I marveled at the snaking line to the front door of Home Depot - one-hundred seventy seven dudes and 13 females. I laughed and my titanium leg hurt so bad and I scanned Sunset Boulevard fro horizon to horizon. I turned east toward Vine Street and Trader Joe's and I walked and I walked and the street dude heard my flut and he screamed "stop talkin' crazy" he screamed and he began to chase me on crumbly legs and I acted terrified and began to run, shimisen bobbing on its shoestring strap (it weighs about one pound because I designed it for 109 pound weaklings like myself) and that hurts so I turned around and sang She's a Woman at the top of my lungs and the chap stopped chasing me. I kept walking as fast as I could, ankle bells chiming in perfect rhythm and the beautiful young woman 30 paces ahead kept perfect time and distance from me. I played the flute and we kept walking - I never saw her face. Tight-tee and short-shorts, you know what I mean and long brown hair down to there swaying in the heat and I stopped at the Gower Gulch - here comes my street Sunset is too hot for a guy like me. I walked in the shade of the trees in this abandoned street and I saw the back entrance to Ametron was open. "No way" I said out loud because Ametron is the finest electronics store - since 1969 - this side of the Mullolland Drive divide (Hollywood and the Valley) and I walked to the entrance. The electronic eye opened the door for me. Two hours earlier I had gone online and the internet said "Ametron is closed" so I headed to the Depot. So here I am at the 'Tron and there is a forty-watt iron (just one kind about a bloody foot long) and a giant roller of solder (just one kind) so I purchased my very first working soldering iron and solder - thirty-eight ninety-seven - way too much but hey...this is all your fault Uncle Doug.
I'm sorry, B, but that's the (high) price for the tools of creative artistry in today's cruel world.......I guess ;)
I have a 1974 Deluxe Reverb just like this one. Like yours, the tremolo on mine does not work. Although I have fixed all the other issues and it sounds amazing, I really want to tackle the tremolo issue. What type capacitors did you use to fix your tremolo problem?
First, you must either have a footswitch (or a shorted RCA plug) plugged into the tremolo footswitch jack for the tremolo to work. Second, the neon bulb and photoresistor in the "bug" must be functional (and visibly flashing). Finally, the three capacitors generally at fault are the two .01's and one .02 that form a rectangle above the left half of the lower right 12AX7 (see schematic). Their values must be correct. I hope this helps.
That reverb sounds great! The new reverb tanks have a really long decay and you can't get them over 2.5 before everything gets swamped.
Thanks, Mark. Glad you liked it :)
I always like your videos Uncle Doug, but it always seems like when you play guitar that you are out of tune... before you play can you double check tuning? It's either that or your camera mic isn't doing you favors.
It must be the camera mic, Andrew, because Rusty is in charge of guitar tuning.....and his competence is legendary.
Thank you so much for posting the videos. I have one of these amps with a rare Utah fender speaker or so I told. But my reverb is not working, I watch your video where your reverb was not working and I'm not positive how you fixed it was it the tube you replaced?
You're welcome, Andy. Sometimes replacing the reverb-driving or recovery tube(s) will help. If not, then you need to seek the help of a qualified tech.
I'm curious as to why you didn't replace the cathode bypass caps for V1 and V2? To my understanding these caps do not contribute/detract from the tone, so why not install new ones?
Greetings, RB. I tested them (with both a capacitance meter and an ESR meter) and found them to be in excellent, fully functional condition, so I left them in.
You had mentioned that the reverb wasn't functioning when you go the amp but no mention of what you did to resolve the issue. I have a 67 blackface with a reverb that is very weak. When at 10 it's what you would expect to hear at 2.
All I had to do was plug in a reverb footswitch and it worked fine. Weak reverb can be caused by a failing oscillator tube, bad oscillator loop capacitors, faulty neon bulb and/or photoresistor, bad output tube bias diode, etc. etc. You'll need to check each of these, and hopefully find the culprit causing the problem. Good luck.
People put dielectric grease on them, we do this on our telescope equipment, to prevent moisture from getting in, and it definitely improves the connections, because dew is a big problem outside at night. But I wouldn’t do that to my amp tubes, unless I was playing in the rain. which I wouldn’t dew. its the same as the dielectric put in tail lights. maybe someone told the owner do this to try and fix a problem.
Thanks for your input, IM.
I share Uncle Doug's opinion on not messing with the Silverface circuit. They were/are good amps in their own right.
John Hudak Thanks for your support, John. On the smaller SF amps, you can see by simply comparing schematics with the BF circuits, that the differences are virtually non-existent.
Dump the orange drops and put some Sozo blues. Smooth it out a bit. Not so spiky. I actually like the Sozo machine wound mustards best. Plus is they are the cheapest of all the Sozo reissues.
Marcel Pacheco Thanks for the input, Marcel. I will keep it in mind for future restorations.
I had one a long time ago !
Thanks for sharing, MT :)
You mentioned cleaning the tube sockets, what do you use/recommend for cleaning the sockets?
Matt Tucker The best product for cleaning tube sockets and contacts is DeOxit, Matt. Here is an ad describing the product: www.amazon.com/CAIG-DeOxit-Cleaning-Solution-Spray/dp/B0002BBV4G
I appreciate the insight. I've tested the vibrato connection as you suggested. I am 90% certain it is the caps.
If you are asking what specific type of capacitor I use, I prefer the Sprague Orange Drops (if I have them on hand), or any other high-quality capacitor (if I don't). I test each of them prior to installation and pick caps that are as close as possible to the .01 and .02uf value. It seems that correct values are important for proper oscillation in the 12AX7. Also, for reasons unknown, some tubes just tend to oscillate better than others. Five tubes can check out fine on the tube tester, but there is often a difference between their performance in an oscillation circuit.....possibly due to tube capacitance (?)
3 thumbs down??? freakin cats using internet and trying to hate on rusty methinks..... thanks doug for sharing. such a joy to learn about the amps that made the albums i grew up on.. cheers
We agree, Scott. Any heartless jerk who would give Rusty a thumbs down is destined for hell......or (even worse) an eternity of watching those old hags on The View :)
Hi Doug, at 17:02 in this video there is a shot of a white spiral winding around a pair of green and red wires (noticed it in another location as well) I guessing it's some sort of hum reduction measure but can you elaborate a bit? Cheers, Jeff.
evj63 Greetings, Jeff. Others have asked about this white wire, and I believe you are correct.....it is intended to shield the signal wires from electrical interference. Like the braided shield used in guitar and reverb cables, one end is grounded. I have seen this wiring technique in quite a few vintage Fender amps.
Hi thanks for the vids again.on the reverb tank should the screws be tight or a little snug cause I have a '83 peavey backstage plus and the screw are really loose.
Dirk, the reverb tank is contained within a black vinyl bag, and the ends of the bag are screwed to the amp floor. The tank itself is not directly attached to the amplifier and is free to move around (a little bit) within the bag.
I will get the thing in the near future. 1 to 3 weeks it looks like. plan on using that amp to show me how to build more. to ensure the survival of the species. they say they are getting harder to come by. enjoy your weekend uncle doug
+JED TAYLOR Thanks, same to you, Jed.
Hey Uncle Doug, hope all is well.
I just picked one of these up, same year. Is the GZ34 an acceptable drop in tube and are there any benefits to using it over the stock tube? Also, mine has a faint cigarette odor, any tips on safely deodorizing amps and cleaning tolex, etc…thank you for all you do, sir!
Greetings :) Yes, the GZ34 is an ideal rectifier tube for this amp. After installing one, be sure to check the bias on your 6V6's, because the higher PV and PC must be dealt with for optimum tone and tube life. I like Simple Green for washing and deodorizing reeking gear. It's fairly mild and smells great.
@@UncleDoug thank you for taking time on the holiday to respond! Happy 4th to you and yours!
This one had the MDF particleboard baffle right?
I don't recall, Billy. That was many years ago.
Nice again and hi to Rusty -- it has been said that those GT '6V6's' are russian tubes closer to 6L6 specs -- so 450 V with gZ34 no prob -- coulod probably squeeze a few more watts from them if you wished...
Uncle Dog! I am happy to found your channel. This is very useful since I´m about to restore an -78 Vibrolux. But I can´t follow Your math. It may have been said before in the comments, but... If I do the math according to Your description the results are 9.54W resp 9.95W. Or have I missed something in the calculation?
Without knowing what you were measuring, what your measurements were, and how you calculated the plate dissipation, it's kind of hard to answer your question, Ek. If you calculations are for a pair of grid-biased 6V6's, however, they are definitely in the ball park.
I´m sorry if I´m confusing You. It is Your math in the video I´m talking about. 21.2 mA x 450v = 9,54W not 9.95 as You state and 22.1 x 450v = 9.95W. In the video You say 10.01 and 9.95. I was wondering if I have missed something to take in account? Thats all.
If you ever encounter a Marshall, many of the newer one's have 2 separate rectifier bridges...One is for the main power supply, and the other is to supply DC to the filaments of the preamp tubes...newer Marshalls have DC going to the preamp tube heaters to reduce possible hum that's prevalent with AC heaters; yet, the output tubes have the standard 6.3 VAC feeding the filaments...Strange design...
The amp came with a 5U4GB, but I'm replacing it with a GZ34...no doubt, the 5U4 draws a lot more current...I had noticed when the amp came in that the power transformer had heat discoloration on the top...When the customer complained that the amp would blow the line fuse as soon as it was turned on (in standby) was one hint that the PT was shorted...I've had quite a few later model Fenders with these issues, including many Marshall amps...as it is, the newer Marshall's are poorly designed...
PS Say hello to Rusty for me,..if he's not sleeping.
Marcel Pacheco I will go outside and tell him you said "Hello", Marcel. He loves to hear from our viewers.
That's so funny...my cat takes a nap before he goes to sleep :) The bad thing is, he always decides to get frisky and want to play during a recording session, I have to pick him up and bring him into the control room...We blew many good takes because he likes smacking tin foil balls around :) either way, they're great company :)
Great tip on the sideways chassis installation ... Speaker bell ain't bad!! By the way ... One reason, in my opinion, that Fender went with the silver face, was to make it easier to see on a dark stage, of which, I have made money on many ... Getting a lot of distortion for being that low on the volume dial. But the articulation, otherwise, is excellent, as a Deluxe Reverb should be. BTW: You can take the output from the reVERB tank and run it into the NORMAL channel with the proper cabling. That way you can roll off some bass and increase the treble, for better control and crispness.
Thanks for the observations and tips, TT.
@@UncleDoug Yessir. You are welcome. Not that I know anything, compared to YOU! Great respect for amp techs ...
Very nice sound, great repair. Keep those video's coming.
+RODALCO2007 We will, Rod. Thanks :)
Doug. Love your videos. I ah e my dads blackface vibrolux. Early 60s I believe. The reverb channel is breaking up creating some overdrive, while the other channel plays clean. Do you have any thoughts about why this would be. Thank you.
That's a great inheritance, Scott. I'm sorry, but long distance troubleshooting is just not feasible. It will have to be investigated and repaired on site. Good luck.
Thanks for the reply. Be well!
By the way, Rusty seems like a really nice dog...I would like to have one, but between working long hours in the tech shop, the recording studio, and being a club DJ 3 nights a week, it would be difficult...so I have a cat...they pretty much maintain themselves :)
Hi Uncle Doug, you've got great videos. I've got 74' Deluxe Reverb Silverface. It's been serviced regularly. But lately I've got some noise (microphonic effect) coming out of the speaker every time I switch the reverb on and the noise increases as I add more reverb. Should I try to replace the reverb tube or it could be something else, that cause that noise? Appreciate it if you can help to resolve this. Thanks
Greetings, FS, and thanks for your kind comments. Microphonic reverb could be caused by a failing driver or recovery tube, or by the tank itself. First step would be to switch out the tubes. If that fails to remedy the problem, then you could adjust the lead dress, check for good plug-socket connections, and finally, try switching out the tank itself. It's a process of elimination. Good luck.
Uncle Doug thanks a lot, I will check all the components of the reverb circuit.
Hi uncle doug,
I want to repair the tremolo of my 77 Vibrolux Reverb. I am wondering which type of capacitors to choose. What types did you use?
I'm not picky. Any new caps you can find that are the right value and voltage. Try Antique Electronic Supply if you need to order any.
Thanks for pointing the right way.
Looks and sounds really nice!!
Thanks, CA :)
Being it's a 1974 amplifier... I'll offer you $74 bucks for the amp... And I'll throw-in some Cat-Nip for Jack...and a Rawhide for Rusty-Dog!! :)
As you say, ISF, it's a 1974......so you're offer is $1900 light. We'll still take the catnip and rawhide, however :)
Great video Uncle Doug. Coincidentally, I have a very similar amp - it also appears to be a '74 which I bought used. It has had the filter caps replaced like yours but otherwise looks pretty original. One thing I noticed is that if I plug in the speaker to the "EXT" speaker jack only, the volume is very low compared with the normal speaker jack. I cleaned the jacks with contact cleaner and inspected it inside and it all appears to the eye to be in order. Solder joints look good. I looked at the schematic but do not understand the switch designations. It looks like the main speaker jack is switched as it has an extra contact. Do you have an idea why this low volume thing is happening? Hope you are well. Peace!
The Fender external speaker jack is generally unusable, Jimmy. Simply unplug the built-in speaker and plug an appropriate-impedance speaker(s) into that jack.
@@UncleDoug OK, thanks Uncle Doug! I have since found that if the main speaker is plugged in, the external speaker works properly. There is some kind of switch in the main speaker jack and it must have something to do with it. Hope you are well and look forward to your next vids!
I LOL'd at dramamine - nice. Great video btw.
Thanks, Kaptain.....glad you liked it :)
My '73 Super Reverb is in similar shape as this Deluxe. When I got it, it had been black faced and had a GZ34 in it. The tech I took it too changed some things in the PI that had the result of making the bass much tighter which was great. I still thought it sounded a bit sterile though but then I decided to change the rectifier back to 5U4GB and rebias the tubes. I did not expect it to change the sound so much but it sounded heaps better. Now it is fat, warm and amazing. Best amp I have ever owned.
DoItYourselfMusician I'm glad it turned out so well, DIY. They are great amps. Thanks for your input.
Great Video! its easy to remove the baffle screws? I want to install a JBL E110 in my vibrolux
Amps vary, ME. Give it a try and see for yourself.
@@UncleDoug yeah I’m afraid that the wood will break from all the years and pressure. It’s a 1965 Vibrolux.
Another great save Doug. Do you ever sell these or you opening the museum of Americana Electronically soon? Thanks for posting another great video!!
Hey Uncle Doug, again a great video, cheers :-) I have exactly the same amp chassis on the bench, same year, pretty great shape, but unfortunately the original cabinet and speaker is missing (and this chassis was installed in a completely mismatched housing with two massive 80W-celestions...). I´d love to build a new housing for this amp, but I´m struggeling to find the original measurements for a proper SF-Deluxe cabinet! There´s loads of infos about the BF, you can also buy BF-cabinets at TAD or other suppliers here in Europe, but no infos about the SF! Do you have an idea, where to get the exact measurements of this beauty´s cabinet?? Or could you maybe measure yourself and send me the most important measurements, that are not self explaining (e.g. width of the chassis)?? that would be ace!!! I´m thinking of building it in my own style, out of dovetailjoined pine, use my own grillcloth and probably use a Jupiter or maybe Weber or Jensen speaker... But `d like to keep the size of the cabinet as original as possible! I´d also probably attatch those Fender tilt-back-thingys, as I really like to tilt the amp backwards on stage (I always do it with my other amps, using beer boxes or whatsoever - sometimes that could end in weird accidents...). This buddy should become my new main-stage-amp, when finished :-) Cheers and say hello to Rusty :-)
Greetings, Sal. I believe that the SF and BF cabinet dimensions are exactly the same, so you could use a BF cabinet for your chassis or as a source for measurements to build a cabinet. If this is not practical, let me know and I'll provide the missing measurements you need.
I don't suppose you noticed the heater string was wired out of phase.
No I didn't. When factory wiring causes no problems, I tend to leave it alone. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.
Ah, I see. Thank you for answering. I thought that because of that Kustom you might also get to work on other great SS amps from time to time. Also, imagine my surprise when I heard that you use a humbucker equipped guitar. I always thought it was some singlecoil model like a Danelectro U2 or similar. That is probably due camera's mic and UA-cam compression. Cheers!
That was a Utah speaker, wasn't it?? I had those in my Fenders.
I honestly don't recall, Steve.
Yes my concern is the tiny speakers,I will check out that Excelsior which sounds like a wiser choice.How about the Fender Blues Junior or Deluxe with the tweed cabinet?
Outstanding resto Uncle Doug. That amp is almost a little 40 year old time capsule.
I had a question about power tubes-Ive been running a pair of 7c5's in my 5e3. These are the equivalent of the 6v6 but with a loctal base-and I use tube adapters to plug in to the standard 6v6 tube socket. NOS 7c5's are much cheaper than good NOS 6v6's.
Have you heard of anything like this before? Is there any downside to running tubes with adapter bases long term?
Thanks so much, Davo. I have only limited experience with loctal tubes in guitar amps (see 1947 National video) but they seem to be excellent tubes, and very durable. I have never heard of 7C5/6V6 substitution, but trust that if they have your auditory approval, they must work just fine. I'm not aware of any long-term harm associated with using adapter-based tubes. Judging from the success of the exchange, the amp probably doesn't "realize" it's been made. Best of luck :)
Its always a pleasure to hear from you, UD. Keep up the good work!
Likewise, Davo. We will. Best wishes to you :)
Wow that reverb is amazing. I have a 2003 deluxe reverb 65 RI and it sounds nothing like that. Is the reverb on the older models better? Back in the 70's I had a deluxe and the reverb was amazing too. Is it possible to improve my RI by changing something? Maybe you can do a video showing how. Again love your videos. Thanks.
You're welcome, BF. I'm not absolutely sure if the reverb in the early models was better than the reissues, but it wouldn't surprise me. Modern circuits use printed circuit boards, quarter-watt resistors, some solid-state parts, and cut corners to reduce construction cost. This would have to have a negative impact on tone and overall quality. About the only thing I would suggest would be to buy a silverface Fender DR and do a side-by-side comparison. Thanks for watching and commenting.
You mentioned on the serial number `A-40` meant a 1974.
I have a blackface twin reverb w/ # A-02...` Does that say the year?
Or where, if anywhere, would I find a date on the amp.
Krang Gangs Greetings, KG. On the BF TR, a serial number beginning with "A-02" indicates that it was built in 1965. Here is a site that lists virtually every amp and possible serial number: www.superiormusic.com/page195.htm There may also be two letters stamped in ink on the tube chart. This will not only tell the year, but the month that the amp was built. This site also explains how to interpret the letters.
Thank you the info. Really enjoying watching amp techs showing us all the what, where, and why. Also enjoy those brief interactions you have with the dogs. Keep up the great work.
You're welcome, KG. Rusty and I are glad you like our videos :) ^. .^
The current JJ 6V6 can handle the higher voltages -- they are kind of a baby 6L6... worth ba try as well -- have fun
nice patina on the metal parts, great tone also
Thanks, Carlos :)
Is there much sense in trying to get these as close as possible to "Blackface specs"? I have a late 70's Deluxe Reverb that somehow sounded better before I had it Blackfaced...maybe the work wasn't done well or maybe you just can't really do it? I believe that Deluxes and Pricetons didn't really change much after CBS bought Fender.
I think you're right, Peter, especially with the early 1970's amps. The changes were very slight and in some cases, i.e. the Princeton, they continued to use the same chassis as in the BF era. I am not a big fan of circuit modification, unless it offers definite benefits, like improved tube life, tone, safety, etc. This is the best site I've seen for a reasonable, informed overview of possible amp upgrades and modifications: fenderguru.com/
The main reason I wanted to "blackface" my DR is because it had that dreaded "Pull Boost". It was harsh so I figured the amp could only sound much better afterwards.
It's now a tad lifeless and constipated. Even the reverb got diminished.
I'll see what gives...awesome video by the way!
Thanks, Peter. Good luck with the amp.
As a reverb hog myself I really needed that 10😊
Amen, brother ;)
Uncle Doug, a huge fan of your videos. I watch them all. I have a 76 Silverface Deluxe Reverb and when I got it, it had very similar issues as the one in your video here. The reverb tank had a broken wire and fixed that. I was going to get another "roach" to fix the vibrato but before I did that, I wanted to see if you would discribe what you did to the vibrato circuit in this video. My amp has terrible ticking in the vibrato and it's weak intermitantly. Thank!
You're welcome, Tim. If you do an Internet search on the issue of "ticking (or thumping) tremolos", you'll find that this is a common issue and largely a result of the high voltages used to trigger the neon bulb. Check out the ways they suggest to reduce the problem and see if any work out for you. Good luck.
Try a product called "303 aerospace protectant" instead of armor all. It has less shine and really brings your material back to life. I use it on many things and has been great. It can be found on amazon.
Thanks for the tip, Frank. I've been looking for a replacement for Armor All.
Not to hijack but I'm interested in the 303 protectant Frank. If the tolex is dirty, are you cleaning it with something prior to using the aerospace protectant?
Hey Uncle. Send that old amp up here to Longview and let me test it out for a few years. Ill get it back to you some day. I loved this one. What a nice find. When you send the amp send your old guitar too.
Not unless I can also send a case of beer and some Russian pole dancers, Monty.
As you wish oh wise one.
Awesome, thanks for the cool tips! What kind of glue did you use to put the paper tube chart back in place?
Thanks, ES. I just used some Elmer's white glue....you can wash off any extra with water.
@@UncleDoug right on, thanks! I just took the OG Pyle speaker out of my '72 DR and put a Weber in there... sounds amazing. But my tube chart is peeling, so I'll get the school glue!
@@theelectricsplash7384 It's the safest way to reattach the chart, ES. Good luck.
Hello again Doug! This amp sounds really nice! It's rare that you find one requiring minimal repairs.This one's a cream puff. I have one in the shop now that has a fried power transformer; shorted turns in the primary...I'm just waiting on AES to ship to me...Another great video as always! You and David have the top of the line vids...I should start making them myself, but my shop is a rats nest (LOL) you need a map to walk through it...Are you and David on Facebook by chance?
i wanted to ask i have a 1968 silverface deluxe reverb been in the family for almost 40yrs.this amp looks like it has national 6v6 tubes in it would these have been what it would had come with from the factory or installed later because i know at one time my dad had some work done to it.i did want to tell you i have seen most of your videos and have really enjoyed and you have my condolences also
Thanks, Philip. I believe that most Fender amps from that era came with RCA tubes, but there were so many variations in the details of amp production, that it's hard to be certain. I don't recall seeing many National tubes in old Fenders, though.
thank you for you reply im defitnately going to replace those tubes as soon as i can .i will say this i sure do like the way that fender silver face sounds with a strat with texas specials clean great sound take care
very nice amp ....and speaker!
Thanks, Chris.
Nice Doug. What do you use to clean the chassis? I have been using alcohol and a brush. is that acceptable? Love your videos.
+picker63028 In the rare instance that I clean a chassis, I would use Windex or 409, being careful not to eradicate any printing or stamped info.
Good advice. I don't give it a bath, just a light clean up on the metal where necessary. Thanks.
What was wrong with the reverb? I missed that. Everybody always says, "tank", but I had a '73 where the reverb transformer was dead.
It was so long ago that I have forgotten, Sean. Bad connections for the input and output jacks can be an issue, as well as the transformer, as you said.
WOW, the Reverb sounds Massive!
Nobody can beat a good Fender reverb, Giulio.
Excellent
Uncle Doug,this is a bit off topic,but what is your opinion of the Fender greta mini tube amp?
Hey Doug, I always wanted to know what guitar you use to test these amps? And one more: have you ever worked on BB King's SS Lab Series L5?