Hello Matt,
Man, have you come a long way my friend! Congradulations on the acquisition of the Johnson Ranger. They're very fine transmitters that are much in demand. You were lucky to "score" one, especially for the unbeatable price you mentioned! In my opinion, they sound terrific as is, and I wouldn't do any audio mods to it until you have it for a little while and get some use out of it. Yes, like other similar transmitters, they can be made to sound better, but IMHO, I'd leave the audio section alone if all is working well. If you have a crystal head D-104 microphonium, that would be a plus, since they seem to like that particular one.
Like Dave Goncalves, W1EUJ mentioned, don't apply any plate voltage to it until the power supply electrolytics have been replaced. They're just an accident waiting to happen! With that re-stated, you'll be able to get replacements from any reputable electronic mail houses here in the states, or I believe there is one near Toronto that may be just as good (the name escapes me at the moment).
IF ALL ELSE FAILS with trying to find replacements, email me at:
n3ibx@verizon.net. I'll put my new electrolytics where my mouth is - hi! and help you out with them.
Let us know what antenna you have, and if you have a ATU, or antenna tuner. Regarding a rx to mate it to, like someone mentioned, the Hallicrafters S85 you have will work just fine.
Do you have a T-R Switch, or "Dowkey"? You'll need one between your tx and rx to work off the same antenna. If not, you'll need a seperate receive antenna for your receiver.
The best of luck with your acquisition Matt, and like I previously mentioned, you've really come a long way! I think I can mirror the statement of a lot of other people in saying that we're proud of you, and definitely hope to work you on the aether in the very near future.
I've known and have corresponded with Matt for a few years via association with him on the "Antique Radio Forum". I've seen him go from a "AA5" tube jockey to getting his Amateur license, and am glad to see his desire to be "one of us". Now we have to talk to him on the air!
I think you'll find the commaraderie among us who operate AM to be second to none, and you'll make many real friends on the air.
Very Best Regards,
Joe Cro N3IBX