• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Rusty transformers... bad? (Ampeg V4b content)

limit6

limit6

Supporting Member
Dec 5, 2007
437
355
Philly, PA
#1
Hey y'all. I've got an opportunity to buy a gnarly looking Ampeg V4b for $450 that was previously owned by "someone in Rhode Island that had a well known amp shop rework it. I think it's vitage 1970's but that's just a guess. I played it out only a couple of times." First off, the pictures sport VERY rusty looking transformers (common for the V4B? Harmless?) and an XLR Male output in place of the the speaker out (guessing it was probably was run into a fliptop cab).

Here a pics.

[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

So here are my questions:

- Is the price right?
- Are these xformers on the way out?
- Anything I should ask/check while I'm there tonight?


I'll be bringing my 8x10 to test through. I'm gonna wanna know what the tech actually did. I can recap the lytics and clean myself, but I wanna make sure that I'm starting with a solid foundation. Thanks brothers.
 
#5
You can always find deals and prices can vary a lot depending on the local market. The key thing will be how it sounds.

The amp has several mods which is a reason for paying less. The front panel, the knobs, and the XLR connector all devalue the amp. The caps have been changed which is fine. I'd want to know what was done inside the chassis.

As for the rust on the transformers. From what I can see, it looks fine. The transform on the right looks like it has a normal amount of rust on it. The power transformer on the left has a copper band around it and you might be confusing this with rust.

Some rust is actually a plus. Too much rust can lead to issues. If when you see it it looks like surface rust, it is fine. If it looks like the rust is getting between the steel plates on the transformer, then there may be an issue. If you buy the amp don't scrape the rust off. Gently whisk away any loose surface rust. If you want you can dab on a thin layer of rustolium paint to stabilize the rust and prevent it from getting worse. There are also lacquers such as MG Chemicals Super Corona Dope 4426 that are designed for transformers that can be used.

When you test the amp, make sure that the impedance switch is set properly at the back of the amp.
 
#6
That XLR plug was installed in that spot that was originally where the extension amp input jack was so unless you have confirmation it was tied into the speaker out I'd assume it was probably more likely a mod for a pre-amp send.

With those mods I think the price might be a little high. I've seen mint condition V4s selling in the $500 range, so $450 for a modded amp seems high, personally.
 
#8
Plugged into it and it sounded awesome. No pops, no scratchy pots, all switches responsive, loud, clean headroom even at 1 o' clock. I check the back and its got JJ filter caps installed, and good tubes throughout. Power section was "hot rodded" to accept 6L6s. The guy took $400 for it, and I was happy to pay it because of the fresh caps and tubes. I'm stoked. I'll post more pictures when I can. Thanks for your help guys.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back