Ok guys. Signal Generator. Do I need one if Im restoring a radio, and where can I get one? Also, I want to fill in my dials indented numbers with the appropriate color. I can remember using something years ago that I wiped on and wiped off and the color stayed in the indented places. Any ideas?

A signal generator should be high on the list of tools, but you don't NEED one for most basic restorations. Tweaking by ear usually works, but a newbie might just screw it up. (pun intended) The stuff that fills in the dial markings is called laquer stick. Radio Daze sells it in several colors.
Marty

I tried tweaking the IF cans by ear, ever so slightly, and somehow "screwed" it up. Radio went dead. Didn't realize that was the problem (Stupid me) for a month or so. I got a signal generator from a nice guy on the forum. It saved the radio, needless to say, I was about to throw it out!
Signal generators are great to have when someone has messed with the trimmer caps a lot.
I use a very simple Stark LSG-10A. It's perfect for my needs. You can find them at a reasonable price here and there. Post a want ad in the classifieds.

If you get a signal generator, you should also try and find a nice analog volt meter so you can adjust the cans for max output.

Welcome, and good luck!

Thanks again for the information. Someone actualy had a signal generator on the classifieds for $20. it was already gone. :cry: I have a radio that I think needs a little tweaking in that area.

Welcome to the Forum.

Sorry you missed that particular signal generator on the classifieds, but keep watching and be patient. All sorts of stuff turn up on the classifieds, and turnover is fast. Another signal generator will come along.



Larry

Post your desire as a Want to Buy in the classified section. That way you get a "first chance" to purchase. Many out there have spares and are happy to help others.

Jerry

(I think) I still have the old Heathkit generator that I started out with 30 years ago. If I can find it, I will donate it to you. Now where did I put that thing...................GREG

Post an ad and list the price you're willing to buy for and they will contact you. I've done that three times and had a deal in less than 24 hours. One of them was bought for postage only.

"Tweaking" means having an operating and playing radio warmed up for twenty minutes or more, tuning to a weak station, and then adjusting the IF screws backward, or forward, no more than 1/8 - 1/4 turn, while listening for a peak in volume. This should not stop an operating radio. If you can't hear it before starting, get it operating first before tweaking.

PM sent.

+1

As far as filling in dials with color, I've had luck with the water-based paint in squirt bottles from art/craft stores. Cheap ($1 or less). Just fill in with the paint generously. Let dry. Then carefully scrape with something plastic (I use old credit cards) or a wet q-tip to remove excess.