Archive of the former Yahoo!Groups mailing list: Mellotronists

 

Tom Moravansky wrote:

On the current set of tapes, virtually none.  Although, some ofthe
less-played notes still have that original bite and grit to them.

> Note that "screeching cable rot"
> (http://www.kleonard.com/gear/tronecdo.htm)could certainly cause problems
> in this regard.  If it has not been done, replace the cablegoing from the
> preamp to the head block with new cable---the wire turns to dustafter a
> while and begins to fail intermittently...shudder...
>

When I was taking out the headblock I noticed that the visible
shielding looked corroded, almost like that ash that forms on
aluminum (or aluminium if you prefer).  Replacing the cable isnow
on the task list (since I'm pulling the amp block anyway).

Has someone prepared an "essential maintenance" list for anyone that
picks up a Mellotron?  I've pieced together some stuff to do andto
look for based on scanning message archives, websites, newsgroups,etc
but it wasn't all in one place.

---

Hello Again  Tom and WW-Crew,

KL has compiled a list of definitions on his Website.  That wonky
cable must be replaced. I have an orig. UK style alum. connector
plug  avail. Email me privately.

RE:  Essential PM list for Trons, You basically have to give theTron(s),
the "once-over" , leaving nothing to chance. That headblock cable forone.

I generally start with the motor.  Is it noisy ? Is it secure? Belt OK ?
Is it holding speed ? What control board is fitted ?   Thatsorta thing....

Then I proceed to the audio.   Heads OK ? Cable OK ? All Ctrl.Pnl pots clean,
not scratching ?  Head azimuth OK ? Any hum/buzz or etc. fromoutput ?

The power-pack is next.   Caps OK or old?  Wiring modsto spec?
(i.e: for SMS or quieter audio )  Semiconductors doing their jobs?
Steady DC from supplies? No AC components on them ?

Then comes the  "fun" part .  Tapes knackered or good ? Adjustments
to pads/rollers?  Felt secure on same ? Pads/Rollers aligned,and rollers
free to turn ? Edges chamfered for elim. of tape migration ?
Return springs OK on rack ?  Guides/combs clean and not bent/distorted?

This is typical checklist, Tom.  Functionality only, not even cosmeticstuff.
For cycling models, the  To-Do List is tripled in size. Hope this helps,  JK