Repairing an old Crate VC-3112W

[rockon1]

Looks just like the one I popped that plastic top off of in the picture I posted. If you felt like it you can do the same and see. I think its perfectly fine underneath.

That GE black plate would probably be better suited for the V2 since the V1 is more susceptable to microphonics. Try it in the V1 first and see. If it doesnt sqeal then cool. If it does it can be used in the V2. Glad its working out for you. Be careful in there(high voltages)Bob

[Pitsi]

Several Tube Distributors around the net like Mojo,Eurotubes,Tubesandmore ect.... and you can either get current production tubes or NOS. The NOS will be much more expensive but will also sound ,last and have the amp closer to how it was at original. Current production Sovteks may develope rattling which is common in current production butI like the JJ EL-84's and do note that a 6BQ5 is the same tube.
Same with the 12AX7 and the LPS is a nice tube for AC operation but not so good for DC because of the spiral filaments. You may also look into replacing as many Electrolytics or all if they are really old but 10,000uf doesn't sound like an old amp but the more ecaps you replace the better off in the future you may be. Just to get it ready for December you may just change what's bad but hope he enjoys when it's done.

I just want to inform you that I have managed to revive the amp and it sounds very nice with the new output JJ EL84 tubes.

Many many thanks for your valuable help and info & happy & healthy new year 2010.

[Pitsi]

Its best to replace all the pwr tubes at once with a matched set. THe JJ EL84 is the best sounding variation out there IMO. YYMV with preamp tubes. Generally the Sovtek 12AX7 WA/WB tubes are pretty bland sounding. Anything is better than those. Preamp tubes last quite a long time, I wouldn't be in a hurry to replace them unless they are those crappy Sovteks.

CAn you post a pic of this cap? It may be just fine despite the appearance.

I just want to inform you that I have managed to revive the amp and it sounds very nice with the new output JJ EL84 tubes.

Many many thanks for your valuable help and info & happy & healthy new year 2010.

[Pitsi]

I just want to inform you that I have managed to revive the amp and it sounds very nice with the new output JJ EL84 tubes.

Many many thanks for your valuable help and info & happy & healthy new year 2010.