So do things just get better overnight? The radio this morning tunes in to stations much more readily, and I have no idea why, but the loud tap-induced static has disappeared. I haven't changed anything yet, it just seems to work better. I don't think the dial light flickers, in fact I can't detect a light at all, although it was clearly working on bench test. Maybe it's just the lighting here. Tapping, movement in the steering wheel etc. seems to have no affect now on the radio, even tapping on the speaker screen now does not create any of the crazy instant static it did last night, none. Having said that Truckernix, here is a clear problem that you referred me to. It is more pronounced now than it was last night when there was so much other noise: the volume control.
The volume control is erratic, volume jumps up and down and produces static when turning the knob. While it does settle out at some point,it does produce scratchy, not loud, but scratchy noise when moving. Pulling it out like you suggested does not seem to have any effect, it moves very little in and outward, almost imperceptible. Switching the tone switch to the left of center produces a very mellow lower volume, and pleasant tone, a little noise but ok for listening. Switching back to the center is a noise fest, accompanied by annoying tinny tone.Third position more mellow, but noisier than far left. I haven't removed the radio from the truck yet, it sounds so much better today I'm a bit reluctant, but not totally out of the idea.
So, does this sound like the kind of problem that can be remedied like with a replacement part, or is something like that even available? Any recommendations would be appreciated - be nice if it worked right.
Thanks for all the help and analysis so far Truckernix and Stan, and many thanks also to klhansen for his earlier most clear explanation on the functions of the two ammeter posts, Cleared it right up for me.
*** Now, for a short small response to the electric wiper conversion kit from Classic Parts. I have a lot to say about how it fits, problems it causes, installation and adjustment difficulties, but nothing as far as the radio is concerned except for the near impossible, done only with great difficulty, insertion of the antenna into the radio, after the radio has been installed. Little to almost no tolerance! I have a lot more on this model to share with anyone considering this conversion but it may be a better fit on the broader electrical forum? If I could send this one back, I would, I found what appears to be another vendor model (New Port Engineering) that seems more thoughtful and at least a little more forgiving in this cramped environment. It was mentioned in a previous thread many years ago by other Bolters and I have followed up on it with NP Engineering since installing this one. IMHO it is well worth reviving this topic, not here and now but somewhat later with more detail for anyone who might be considering a conversion to electric in the future, and to flesh out any more of the previous experiences Bolters may have had with this conversion, pro and con. Thanks again to all of you,
Dale
Last edited by cameo1956; 03/14/2021 10:16 PM.
