"k3hvg" wrote in message
...
I've got a particularly nice NC-183 in the collection. Although nothing
untoward has happened after a number of continuous hours of operation, I
do notice that the power xformer get noticeably hot.. as in it can't be
touched but for a few seconds. Voltage drop considerations aside (they
can be addressed, after the fact), would using a solid-state rectifier,
in place of the 5U4, provide a noteworthy temp decrease? 15 watts is 15
watts, of course, but I'm curious if anyone's actually made note?
Thanks de K3HVG


First, have you replaced the filter caps, and the original wax capacitors?
Leaky audio coupling caps will greatly increase the current draw.

What is your line voltage?

If its over 120, I'd suggest using a small 12-volt @ 2 Amp filament
transformer wired in series-buck (or autotransformer) configuration
to drop the AC line voltage at the set to 110 volts. That will help a lot
with the transformer heating!

regards

Peter, k1zjh