I’m installing a new output transformer into Tim Lerch’s Princeton Reverb re-issue. The new output transformer is an Allen/Heyboer “TO-20.” It’s a much beefier part compared to the stock OT (see photos below, new OT is black, stock is silver)). I also installed a larger-valued power supply filter capacitor for the main supply voltage.

As a result, the amplifier holds together a bit better at higher volumes. Plus, I think the new OT makes the amp a bit more articulate.

Let’s see what Tim thinks……

“Paul. I really think it’s a lot better. More robust and the low mids seem more prominent than before. A good upgrade!”

Another Blues Jr. in the shop.

Lots of distortion – and, after some investigation: bad solder joints where the power tube sockets mount to the PCB. I have seen quite a few Blues jr’s with this exact problem.

What causes this? A few things. One is that the power tubes are oriented so that the heat from the tubes rises upwards to the solder joints. And after many cycles of hot (when the amp is powered-on) and cold (when amp is powered-off) the expansion and contraction of the solder creates cracks in the solder, and hence, a bad connection

Two: Fender designs the amplifier with a bias that runs the power tubes (EL84’s) at 100% just sitting there at idle. This generates a lot of heat, thus further exacerbating problem # 1.

I always recommend a change (modification) to the bias circuit that throttles the power tubes back a little. This takes about 1 to 1.5 hours due to the way the amp is constructed. You have to do some disassembling of the amp to be able to get to the side of the main pointed circuit board, to remove and add parts, solder/de-solder, etc). It’s worth it for the reliability the mod adds to the amp. Plus ,the amps power (output) tubes will last longer since they are being operated at a cooler temperature (less quiescent power being dissipated in the power tubes)

So, its bad enoug