power transformer cover needed?

[snoozzell]

I left the black cover off of the power transformer because I liked the look of the bell end contrasting against the rest of the black on the amp.

However, I've noticed that the power transformers are getting very hot after a couple hours of listening.  I'd say a little hotter than my s.e.x. amp. I can usually hold my fingers against the s.e.x. transformer for at least 5 seconds with the monamour I really need to lift it off after 2 or 3.

I know they can handle a decent amount of heat but I wanted to check to see if the transformer cover had a functional heat sinking purpose that I'm missing by leaving it off or if it is purely cosmetic.

thanks a lot for your time and thanks for designing such a great kit these things sound absolutely incredible.

-david

[Paul Birkeland]

They are cosmetic.  Typically PJ will design the transformers so that they won't get so hot that they burn you if you touch them, and that leaves a ton of thermal margin vs. what the transformer materials can actually cope with in terms of heat.

I'm also guessing that you don't have an Eros

[Gerry E.]

They are cosmetic.

Is this true for all BH component PTs including my early version Paramounts?  I never cared for the candy-apple red that the original owner/builder painted the PTs (see attached photo).  If I could still use the amps with the PT covers off that will give me some time to strip the original paint and re-paint them.  Thanks!

Gerry   

[Paul Birkeland]

No, the Monamour has aluminum shrouds that cover the power transformer and those are cosmetic.  The steel end covers protect the windings from damage, so I wouldn't recommend not using those.