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RE: bad Capacitors

Posted by unclestu (D) on November 30, 2011 at 16:37:27

In Reply to: bad Capacitors? posted by cpielock@eaglebrook.org on November 18, 2011 at 07:28:22:

Most modern electrolytics have a life expectancy of about 7 years. Computer grade types, with the screw top terminals, have a life expectancy of 15 years, at least according to old Sprague manuals I have. Your electronics are due for a replacement of the power supply caps.

Electrolytics are designed to be self healing, which means as their wetting fluid evaporates and the surfaces arc, they blow a hole and the capacitor sort of reforms through the short ( probably the popping noises you hear). Change out the main power supply caps first and then work forward, as the caps immediately after the rectifiers absorb most of the surge.

Stu

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