Sonora 302 restoration

[bandersen]

I wanted to squeeze in one last major refinishing job before the cold weather arrives. eenie meenie miney mo - this Sonora 302 is it.

Here's the thread from when I got it last year: http://www.videokarma.org/showthread.php?t=254990



It's an interesting design that uses a variable capacitor for continuous tuning. Looks very easy to work on


Over the last year, thanks to some reference photos from Eric H and a lot of luck, I was able to track down a complete set of knobs including the continuous tuning channel plate!




This is easily the crappiest cabinet I've encountered. It's a basic plywood box with little bracing and mismatched veneer. As you can see, it's warped over the years especially on the side with the missing brace and the top.



The top is also stained and nasty looking.


I started by removing the brass trim, safety glass and metal bezel. Then moved on to reinforcing the cabinet.


I used a sturdy piece of oak across the top. That's better! I later had to cut out an arch otherwise the CRT wouldn't fit inside.



Here's the cabinet after stripping. I also used a little bleach on top to remove the worst of the staining.
As you can see, it's mahogany.


As for this side, I'm not sure what it is exactly. Low grade mahogany ? Cherry ? It sure doesn't match the top or other side.


All patched up, grain filled and ready for some color

[bandersen]

I sprayed it up in the attic using a coat of Mohawk "Red Cherry/Mahogany" follow by "Brown Mahogany".
I discovered the metal bell of a 16GP4 makes a great spraying stand



I though I'd be repainting the bezel but it cleaned up very well.


I spent a few hours polishing up the brass control panel then coated with lacquer.




And that's that! It turned out much better than I expected in the end.

I'll probably get around to the electronics over the winter. Right now, I have a Dumont RA113 calling.

[decojoe67]

I enjoyed your vid Bob and these pics too. That set really came out beautiful! You turned a set that you'd might not take notice of become a real jewel. You have to love the maroon and gold colors they used back then. Very rich combination.
Joe

[Bill Cahill]

Very fine job. That panel is very low grade mahoganny.
You did a great job on it....
Bill Cahill

[baursam]

Beautiful job Bob, as always.