Lee Jackson Metaltronix Amplifiers

[lancebug]

I've had my VL-503 for a little less than 10 years and just replaced the power tubes for the first time. Big difference. The old ones were visibly beat. I want to do the preamp tubes next, but it sounds like getting to them can be a little tricky. Any one have any advice, warnings or just plain old instructions before I get to tinkering. Also any recommendations for some non-vintage replacements? I put JJ E34L's in the power section. Thinking about more JJ's unless there is a reason not to.

[Raphael]

Let's see if I can remember... Unplug speaker lead. Remove power tube shield (tolex covered board) on back of cabinet. Unplug the reverb leads at tank and wire anchors from cab sides. Partially loosen 4 screws on top of cab, then fully remove. Amp head will drop down on to a ledge. Carefully slide out of rear of cab. I set it on wood bench with wood blocks to level it out. There will be a retaining strap over the 6 tubes. Take care not to touch anything else on board, (I've hear about charged capaciters or whathaveyou in there) :shock: remove 2 screws holding strap. I just layed in over out of the way and replaced the tubes. Reinstall the strap. I tested the tubes while head removed by pluging in speaker, reverb and power and allowing at least 5 minute warmup (both power and standby on). Tapped tubes with pencil eraser for noise and then played through it. Then reversed above to reinstall.

What did I forget?

I used Tung Sol (reissue) 12AX7 and 6550s. Also have some Sovtek EL34s, I like the TungSols better.

[lancebug]

Thanks much, couldn't have asked for more!