Father has a 1936 RCA Model 8k...

fattybign · New Member Joined: 07 Nov 2009 Posts: 1

... and I want to buy it off him, but I have no idea what it is actually worth. I want to give him fair value for it, so I have come here looking for help.

It still works, but has a slight hum (that might be normal?) It has some scratches on the top finish which I will need to restore but isn't that bad, but other than that, it is perfect.

Any suggestions on the value of this? Thanks everyone!

jkaetzjr · Posted: Nov Sat 07, 2009 4:02 pm

6th edition of Slusser has it at $120 to $150. If yours works and is nice looking, top end of range.

gary rabbitt · Posted: Nov Sat 07, 2009 4:13 pm

Hi,

Are you a collector or perhaps want to resell the set later? If it was my dad's radio, he'd probably give it to me with the hopes of keeping in in the family, servicing it so it is safe and functional.

Hum is not normal. It indicates that the "filter capacitors" are failing and could short. If that happens, they can take the transformer out, or cause a fire.

Please don't power up the set again, until at lesat the filter caps have been changed.
http://www.philcoradio.com/tech/plugin.htm

As you say the set "works" that is a good sign, It shows other sections are still functional. But if those caps fail, it can ruin other sections and bring the value of the set way down.

We don't know your experience with radios, or working with them, I assume you haven't because of questioning the hum.

The parts can be easy to change on your own, all you need is soldering skill and a little patience.