When restoring an old radio (TSF), it is necessary to clean it—both the casing and chassis—before performing some electrical repairs to make it "sing" again.
During such a project, the following scenarios may arise:
- The casing is in good condition: a thorough cleaning is enough, followed by waxing or simple varnishing for wooden cases.
- The chassis is in good condition. No missing tubes, wiring intact.
- The casing is badly damaged: broken plastic, stained, detached, or missing wood veneer.
- The chassis is completely rusted, wiring torn out, burnt power transformer, etc.
Cases 1 and 2 account for 80% of the conditions I encounter and are covered in the descriptions below.
The other two cases require more extensive repairs, which vintage radio restorers enjoy tackling. These situations demand solid skills in material treatment (wood, metal, or plastic) as well as in electronics.
Beware of Termites!
Old radios are often stored in attics and basements. Their wooden cabinets are sometimes eaten by termites (even slightly). This pest can spread and grow in your home, causing significant damage. It’s not very amusing when, after bargaining for a radio at 5 euros, you find yourself having to spend thousands of euros in repairs years later due to termite damage.
Fortunately, there are wood treatment products against this pest. The most well-known in France is Xylophene.
The first steps should be taken outside, especially for wooden cabinets.
- Separate the metal chassis from its wooden cabinet.
- Dust off the cabinet with a brush or, preferably, with compressed air.
- Coat the cabinet with Xylophene. This substance is available in spray cans but also in larger containers in the "Wood Treatment" section of hardware stores.
- Immediately place the cabinet in a large plastic bag, such as a 100L garbage bag.
- Seal it tightly, ensuring it is airtight. Let it sit for 48 hours.
