Advice needed for "daily driver" Zenith set

[NowhereMan 1966]

Originally Posted by radiotvnut

Picking up where I left off, the second generation S3's that used the 9-160 module were known for loose connections and flybacks that would burn up. These were made from around '79-'82.

The third generation S3's used a 9-181 main module and a 9-186 sweep module. This series is my least favorite and a "dead set" condition can be quite a troubleshooting experience. These were around from around '82-'86.

There were also the "advanced system 3's" as well as the "digital system 3's" of the late '80's. Don't get me started on those digital sets. Just take my word that they were a PITA and stay away from them. A friend gave me his 31" Digital system 3 console that he gave $1600 for and I patched it up good enough to give to the SA. The advanced system 3's had things like stereo audio and A/V jacks.

I think collector interest pretty much ends after the CCII chassis. There is some interest in the early S3 sets; but, not much at this time. I have an '84 13" that works and a 19" that has vertical problems. Both use what I call the third generation S3. Everything else I own is CCII and one beat up 4 tube hybrid 19" from '74.

I have one of those 3rd generation sets, every once in a while, the picture gets a red cast to it then it flicks out. It does that every several month for a little while and then it is good for a long while. It was made in 1982, been in use since we bought it in early 1983.