[sdiy] Lifespan of Electrolytics?

[Paul Schreiber]

About 18-20yrs TOPS for these caps. I *immediately* replace all these caps in my vintage synths.
A great selection is found at www.digikey.com  as many older gears has axial caps. Philpis makes
these "solid electrolyte" axials that are somewhat expensive (say $3ea) but last like 30 years.

Paul S.

----- Original Message -----
From: "Joe Kramer" <musetrap at earthlink.net>
To: <synth-diy at dropmix.xs4all.nl>
Sent: Monday, May 20, 2002 1:08 PM
Subject: [sdiy] Lifespan of Electrolytics?


> Hi Folks,
>     I recently got ahold of a Tapco 4400 reverb for cheap because one channel
> was dead.  After chasing down a handful of 4136s and systematically replacing
> each one, I came to find that the actual problem was a bad electrolytic in the
> signal path.  The circuit board is dated 2/17/77.  I'm guessing that several
> more of the caps in this board are marginal.  What is the expected lifespan of
> electrolytics, and what are the effects of old and aging ones?  Is it worth the
> trouble going through any old gear including synths that are past, say, about
> twenty years and giving them a electrolytic overhaul?  Anyone have firsthand
> (or secondhand) testimonials?  Thanks.
>
> Regards,
> Joe Kramer
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