How hot is too hot?


I've noticed something in my classic vacuum tube amplifier rebuilds that has puzzled me for years.
In the sets where I have replaced all filter, bypass and coupling caps, it seems that the power transformers
continue to run very warm to the touch.
With everything operating per factory specs, regardless of brand or tube count, how hot is too hot?
ampx61

Showing 1 response by almarg

I've noticed that too, working with 1950's and 1060's gear. I've assumed it is due to the fact that line voltages are higher now than they were then, in many areas 120-125VAC now instead of 110-117 then.

Can't offer any guidance re "how hot is too hot," other than the fact that I haven't encountered any transformer failures so far in a moderate amount of experience with equipment from that period.

Regards,
-- Al