Model Identification - Finding Service Documentation

[Motorola minion]

As an employed TV repair technician during the 80s, I did many side jobs to supplement modest pay. While I would not hesitate to repair any tube radio, phonograph or console stereo, my employers wanted to sell new. I had my own customers who probably wouldn't buy new electronics anyway!

It was a much-needed break from solid state troubleshooting of all the above. One great perk of being a tech was relative ease of locating service information and sourcing replacement parts. I have repaired many a model without a schematic, but I only recommend that if you're on a simple project or one with well-known and infamous OEM parts like a SS RCA victor with an orange fire-cracker multi-section electrolytic. Thanks to the you-know-what, even the most odd parts turn up as well as factory-issue documentation.

I will add to this thread over the next few weeks some resources to help you narrow down the necessary documentation to restore your particular piece of equipment. This should include:

1. Locating model numbers, date stamps and what they mean for various manufacturers.

2. Tracking down a factory-issue circuit diagram, service manual, operators manual and published information like "Sams Photofact", an industry standard aftermarket source.

3. Learning more about your piece of equipment, its place in range of models offered and possibly placing a reasonable value on it based on rarity and quality/trim level.

4. Slippery slope but I will share my parts sources, without stepping on honest toes of some newer sources. Keep looking is my standard, maybe someone thinks its worth putting online someday!

[electra225]

Thank you, Dave, for sharing this vital information.

[William]

Yes, thanks Dave! I need all the help I can get when it comes to available info.

Bill

[Firedome]

Stellar advice, as usual!