Buick radio 980797, 980798
The existing replacement power transformer should work OK as long as the increased primary voltage doesn't cause saturation of the iron core. If the iron saturates, the input current will increase sharply. Iron will be less likely to saturate as long as the vibrator operates at 115 Hz like the original. It's even better if the transformer was originally rated for use on 50/60 Hz power (meaning there is more iron present than on a 60 Hz unit).
Presuming the synchronous vibrator and the center-tap on the transformer secondary have gone away, might be a good idea to change to dual buffer capacitor/resistor setup over to a single buffer capacitor and resistor like on later sets using a non-synchronous vibrator.
The ideal solution of course would be to use a 12V vibrator power transformer from a parts radio.
A couple of other items to note:
Some schematics for the '48 sets indicate the speaker uses a 6V field coil. Easiest workaround here would be to install a permanent magnet speaker.
Also, there is a 6V clutch coil used on the tuner to de-couple the manual tuning knob mechanism when a pushbutton is used for station selection. This clutch coil was designed out of the '49 and later sets, so there is no 12V equivalent. The coil would need a series dropping resistor to maintain normal operation.
Last edited by TODD; 04-02-2018 at 05:09 PM.
Reason: Add title
What has been, can be again. (Bob Wills, 1942)
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