Bottlehead Forum

Bottlehead Kits => Crack => Topic started by: hoy83 on April 26, 2022, 05:47:40 PM

Title: painting the power transformer cap after build is finished?
Post by: hoy83 on April 26, 2022, 05:47:40 PM
Hi, I didn't get to spray paint/paint the power transformer cap (the metal piece at the top that's screwed down with 4 screws), I was hoping to paint it? because the manual says it will rust.. is there a way to do that once the build is finished? Or do I have to take apart everything and do over again to paint it? Thanks.
Title: Re: painting the power transformer cap after build is finished?
Post by: kGlerup on April 26, 2022, 07:37:40 PM
Should not be impossible to cover the entire build with plastic foil and only expose the transformer cover, using masking tape as needed.
But I wouldn't do it...
Screws will be painted and it will be hard to do any sanding if needed.
Title: Re: painting the power transformer cap after build is finished?
Post by: ccmccull on April 26, 2022, 08:13:41 PM
I did the same thing on my moreplay. It was pretty easy to unscrew the transformer from the base without desoldering anything, remove the bell and coat it away from the amp.
Title: Re: painting the power transformer cap after build is finished?
Post by: Paul Birkeland on April 27, 2022, 04:21:02 AM
Just get some blue painters' tape and tape the chassis plate off really well and paint the entire transformer and cover.  Don't forget to clean before you paint.
Title: Re: painting the power transformer cap after build is finished?
Post by: caffeinator on April 30, 2022, 08:19:29 AM
Ditto on the blue tape and cleaning and prep.

This is very doable - I've repainted bell ends, transformer laminations, and top plates after completing builds, generally with good results. It's all about prep, masking, and paint application, just like when doing it during the build.

Good luck!
Title: Re: painting the power transformer cap after build is finished?
Post by: Drew1d on April 30, 2022, 10:02:28 AM
Wait till it's really really dry before turning it on...  I would also probably put a mineral spirits on a rag and wipe thoroughly to get the oils from your hands off of it first.   Then wait an hour or two.  Then paint, take off tape, then wait like 2 days, then try it with an open window.  What paint are you going to use?  Any cool designs or style?