Setchell Carlson 553
 

Hi - I'm hoping somebody here can tell me if this TV/radio/phono player is of any value to anyone. I would hate to throw it into a dumpster if there are people that collect this model.

It's a Setchell-Carlson 553. Based on the receipt I would say that it was purchased in 1954. The inside has a plate that states it is a chasis model 155. The last time I plugged it in the radio worked but the tv only displayed a white dot in the center. Never tried the phonograph.

Found a picture of a similar model. Mine has two additional knobs.

That's a neat looking set. I imagine some forum member would like to have it. Whereabouts are you located ?

I'm in Green Bay, WI.

I'll have to bring a camera to work tomorrow so I can get some photos.

It's actually not a bad piece of furniture. It's just time to change the decor of my office.

Unusual layout -- those "frogeye" designs remind me of a creature with a big gaping mouth.

Now that you know it only makes a white dot, don't turn it on any more. Every TV of that vintage needs service before it's safe to play, and this one's no exception.

Phil Nelson

What makes them unsafe? Fire hazard or the strange feeling in my head when I stand next to it while it's on?

The dot will burn a spot on the picture tube.

There are paper and electrolytic capacitors in them that deteriorate and fail with age. They go off value, become open, or short out. When that happens, all kinds of havoc can be wrought on the still working parts of the set when power is applied. As tempting as it is, it's never a good idea to turn on an old TV or radio until it has had its old capacitors replaced.

I've actually seen TV's and radio's with burnt up power transformers and other expensive and/or NLA parts because an old capacitor shorted after the set had been powered off for years. Many of these old sets had little-to-no short circuit protection and when something goes wrong, it can be a real headache. Also, I've seen old capacitors that were working fine one minute and go "BOOM" the next. That's why I take no chances with electronic equipment from the tube era. I usually replace all paper and electrolytic caps before power up.

You probably have not caused any serious damage to your set; but, I wouldn't even turn on the radio again until you either find it a new home or decide to restore it.