Ampeg PF500 fault indicator

[MyDogSkIp]

After much research and reviewing, I decided to trade in 2 working combo amps (Fender & Peavey) for 1 PF500 half-stack. Had it for 3mo. played two shows and a number of rehearsals. After the 3rd show it sat for a week without being used. Last night at rehearsal powered it up and noticed the "fault" indicator on and NO fan movement. After reading more on TalkBass, this seems to be a recurring issue... Im starting to regret choosing the Ampeg. Have another show this weekend and no backup rig. Goatassed.

 

[NWB]

Did the fault light stay on?

It does come on briefly during power-up which is normal.

 

[MyDogSkIp]

Yes. Fan will spin a few rotations then stop. No output what so ever. Taking it back to GC, but skeptical of a replacement doing the same thing... at a gig. Now I'm gonna be set back a backup head in addition? Way to go Ampeg, thanks a lot!

 

[JimmyM]

Well there are a lot of folks using PF500's with no problems, but it does suck when you get one that doesn't work, I'll certainly admit that. But Ampeg's been very quick to hop on problems and get new amps to those with problems, so I'd give it another shot. Of course, I'm a little biased but trust me...nobody at Ampeg wants you to spend your hard-earned on an amp that doesn't work.

 

[MyDogSkIp]

Thanks for the encouraging support! I traded up to prevent this sort of thing from happening and choose the Ampeg because of their high reputation and industry standard for bass amps. Unfortunately the PF is the most I can afford

 

[B-string]

Have you tried powering the amp on without a cab attached in case you have a shorted speaker cable?

 

[MyDogSkIp]

Yes. Still in fault mode. Tested cab driver with a low powered practice amp and that works OK. Gonna have to invest in a small used backup head unfortunately as well. Can't be assured a repaired/replaced PF500 is going to work at a gig... Not happy.

 

[christw]

Have you tried powering the amp on without a cab attached in case you have a shorted speaker cable?

A shorted speaker cable can kill the power section of the amplifier instantaneously IME. Happened to my first PF500.

 

[MyDogSkIp]

Was using the supplied cable. I WILL be purchasing a new cable in addition, just to be safe. Thanks, good recommendation!

 

[JimmyM]

It can also happen if the 1/4" plug isn't inserted all the way or plugged in after it's turned on.

 

[MyDogSkIp]

Update- Missed GC's exchange policy by 5 day's. Will have to be sent out for repair under the Pro Coverage plan. Purchased a Gallien-Krueger MB200 as a rehearsal/gig "backup head" to the iffy PF500... Whenever its returned after service.
Oh yea, have to wait 2 days for the prepaid shipping label is emailed from GC Pro Service dept.,
...Nice.

 

[B-string]

That will make a nice backup head! You can darn near put them in your pocket.