Crate rebuild transistor question TIP141 TIP146

[russell072009]

Hello,

I have been hunting around for an answer and came upon this forum so i thought i would ask all of you. I am rebuilding an old crate G120CXL amp and have run in to a question about the darlington transistors used. The schematic and parts list call out TIP141 and TIP146 transistors. I have a bunch of new ST TIP142 and TIP147 i would like to use. I am having problems finding matching 141 and 146's to replace the ones in the amp. I would like all 4 to be the same brand and package type.

I know the 142 and 147 have a higher base emitter and base collector voltage but can they be used to replace the 141 and 146 transistors without damage to the amp? I have put a lot of time and money in to rebuilding this amp and don't want to cook anything.

Any information you have would be very much appreciated.

G120C & CXL Schematic.pdf

[Dave H]

It should be OK. The only difference I can see is the Vce.

[Enzo]

Perfectly fine. In 30 years of running an authorized repair shop for Crate and many other brands, we never stocked TIP141/146. The TIP142/147 pair are used by Crate, Fender, MAny others.

[russell072009]

So you don't think the 20v higher emitter base and collector base voltage requirements would damage the power supply circuit at all?

[Enzo]

They are not requirements, they are capabilities. Using them is like using a heavier extension cord than you need for a table lamp. Or using a 250 pound rated ladder instead of a 200 pound rated one. Not only will they not harm your amp, your amp is LESS likely to harm THEM.

[russell072009]

Great. Thanks for the help. I really appreciate it.

[drewl]

I think all the newer ones use the 142/147.

Should be fine as mentioned above.