[gitarretyp]

I have an ASL tube amp with a blown output transformer. I was able to get a hold of a replacement, but the original transformer is, what looks like, epoxied into the transformer cover. Does anyone have any tips for removing the transformer without destroying the cover? Also, i need some suggestions for what to use to hold the replacement in place.

[*Scotty*]

If the case is brushed aluminum with no clear coat or other coating on it you can heat it with a propane torch with a flame spreader attachment evenly on all sides and the epoxy should release from the sides of the case. You may have to drill a hole in the top of the case and push the transformer out. You could also try baking it in your oven at 500 degrees until the epoxy lets go.
ASL might sell you a new case without a transformer in it as an alternative to salvaging the old one.
Scotty

[gitarretyp]

The case is painted black, so torching it's probably not a good idea . Any risk of not so healthy fumes from baking the epoxy?

[Gordy]

Scotty, would dry ice do the trick? 

[*Scotty*]

Gordy,the differential contraction of the aluminum will be greater than the epoxy, so cold alone won't do the trick. Freezing the transformer
and then hitting it with a chisel might shatter the epoxy. If the epoxy gets hot enough it will start to breakdown and let go of the case.
If the paint has been baked on it may not scorch until quite a high temperature possibly greater than 300 degrees. The fumes will be somewhat toxic pets and birds especially, should not be exposed to them. A new case from the mfg might be the easiest way to go.
One other thought about the transformer, it isn't identical to the original transformer one channel will sound different than the other.
Scotty

[WGH]

I would try a either a methylene chloride paint stripper, MEK, or acetone. First get a glass gallon pickle jar or other air tight container that the transformer will fit in, then fill the transformer case with the solvent, put the lid on and wait 24 hours.

Open the jar outdoors, smoking at this point would probably be bad for your health. 

You will probable have to re-spray the case flat black, the fumes will dissolve any paint.

How about using GOOP to glue in the new transformer?

Wayne

[gitarretyp]

The transformer was sourced from ASL, so it should match the original. The paint on the cover is a hammered style black, so matching it to the others will be difficult, unless i re-paint all of them which would also be difficult because of silk screened logos on the power transformer's cover. I was hoping to be able to sell the amp after repairs, so i'd prefer to keep the cosmetics close to original. As for baking, i do have pets and prefer not to risk my own health either.

It sounds like the only reasonable cosmetic solution is to get a new cover from ASL.

[WGH]

Another option, and the most fun, is to use a structured tooth carbide bur and grind out the epoxy around the transformer.



I use these a lot, they last forever and have never wore one out even after grinding mesquite for weeks and weeks. It would make short work of the epoxy.