Amp issue

[n.martinez2740]

I have a dual rectifier 3 channel solo head. Everything is set within the recommended settings from the manual.

I was playing and a volume swell and strong hum began, and a loud popping whenever I change channels. I turned it off and then quickly noticed a smell of something getting either too hot or just about to smoke.

I'm wary to turn it on because it seems like something was getting too hot or a tube was burning.

The tubes are pretty old and likely are the culprit but I'm just looking for any other info or possibilities.

Thanks!

 

[screamingdaisy]

If you turn it on take a look at the power tubes. If one of them starts glowing red (red plating) then it's failed and needs to be replaced. Turn it off as soon as you see it red plate. The smell may be oil and dust cooking off the tube.

Sometimes it won't red plate immediately but the vibrations of playing will shake the tube and trigger it. This will give you crackling, volume fluctuations and hum.

If the tubes are old this is a pretty good excuse to buy a whole new set.

 

[n.martinez2740]

Thanks for the help. One is red plating.

I've also read about cleaning where the tube sits. How exactly do I do that?

Thanks again!

 

[afu]

Contact cleaner from Radio Shack or wherever. It sprays a lot in a short time. If you aren't taking it apart, spray some in a bottle cap and dip a trimmed q-tip in it to rub through. A twist of napkin/paper towel work, too, but beware loose bits that may come apart and remain in the amp. Wait a bit for it to dry and you're good to go. Wear a mask and glasses, or at least don't breathe when you spray it. Or do so and report the sounds and sights you see.

 

[Jorn218]

Cleaning the tube sockets is easy. Use the contact cleaner afu mentioned, but instead of using a twisted napkin or towel, to get down in the holes, use the tube you pulled from that socket. Spray the tube's pins with a short blast from the cleaner can then insert the tube, then take it out 3-4 times. Spray the pins again and repeat. Wipe off any excess cleaner, then let the amp sit without tubes for 5-10 minutes, then reinsert your tubes and have fun playing your amp.

Inserting the tube in and out after you spray the cleaner on the tube pins acts as a non-abrasive scrubbing action to both the tube pin and tube socket, once excess is wiped off and give 5-10 minutes for cleaning fluid to evaporate if any still lingering in the tube socket, both the tube and socket connection is better as both have been cleaned.

 

[afu]

Thanks. Didn't remember that one. Also, unplug the amp.

 

[TRENCHLORD]

CRC quick-dry from Wal-mart works fine. You can spray it right in the sockets but don't go crazy with it, just a couple bumps of the nozzle is plenty.
Really it's good to turn the head upside down so it will quickly drain excess fluid, although it evaporates on it's own very fast regardless.
If it's older and corroded then yeah work the tubes in and out with the cleaner.

 

[n.martinez2740]

Thanks for the advice.

As far as tubes go, any recommended types? I can use EL34 or 6l6's. I play primarily metal. Also, any favorite sources for them?

Thanks again guys!