Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => Tube Amp Building - Tweaks - Repairs => Topic started by: Justa on June 18, 2016, 12:15:52 pm

Title: ESR Meter Screen of Old Capacitors
Post by: Justa on June 18, 2016, 12:15:52 pm

I saw an Uncle Doug video where he used an ESR meter to screen original capacitors in a 1955 Gretsch amplifier.  The caps passed ESR so he decided that they did not need changing out.

I planned on using my ESR meter just to screen caps for a parameter I didn't have capability to test for.  Is it really safe not to change out really old electrolytics that pass ESR screen?

Thanks

Title: Re: ESR Meter Screen of Old Capacitors
Post by: sluckey on June 18, 2016, 12:22:01 pm

It's safe for a while. How long is a guess.

I'm using some original filter caps in some Hammond organ conversions with no issues. But I'm a bedroom picker. If I was playing in a band and had to depend on the amps, I'd change them right now.

Title: Re: ESR Meter Screen of Old Capacitors
Post by: Justa on June 18, 2016, 12:53:34 pm

So I guess what I'll do is continue to change out old electrolytics in any amps that are "player" amps and not change out ESR passed old caps that have significant collectors value.

Thanks Sluckey!