The AM Forum

I am working on a Collins 32v. After all these years it is discolored to the point of not being able to tell the color code. Any advice on what and how to use, to retain the original wiring?
Thanks,
ed-kv5i

Some old wiring with waxy material will come back to color with application of heat. Also some WD40 may help, but that isn't so good either. An old guy I knew used to take a propane torch and pass it along the harness. A lighter under a wire, on old transformers, to bring the colors out. These are probably not good suggestions and much wire insulation isn't the old waxy type.

The propane torch is also a great way to let the smoke out. ;) ;)

About a half and half mixture of 409 and Ammonia (cleaning type) and a paint brush.
Liberally apply/scrub and rinse off withe a hose.
Remove any meters and try not to spray water directly into any transformers/I.F. cans.
Bake in oven on WARM setting (190F) for 2 hrs.
Did that to many 32V's and Rangers when I was doing some piece work for Howard Mills W3HM. Chassis and wiring looks like new.
Fred

You will have to experiment to make sure there is no problem but I have had great results with Krud Kutter available at Lowes and other places. It is a green product but a very good cleaner. I spray down the entire chassis being careful not to get it in transformers, IF's etc.  On really dirty areas I use a stiff brush. Then I use a sprayer in a sink and very hot water and rinse with that. Always let things dry for a day or two in a warm area before applying power.