ARC Reference 10 melting polycarbonate cover

I had the problem with my Ref2 SE phono stage. I thought I was going to have to buy a new rack as the one I have only has about 3" of space above the ARC and the next shelf. The poly cover was starting to bow above the 6550.

A cooling fan solved the problem. I think the fan is a good idea even if you remove the cover. Cooler operation equals longer life.

Egrady, what type of cooling fan did you get? Is it battery powered? Recommendations?

I have a Ref5 SE that has the same polycarbonate cover. It is sitting on top of my rack with the ultimate ventilation. The cover is STILL WARPED! It has nothing to do with adequate ventilation. Lostbears nailed it, it's the 6550 power tube. Flipped it over and in 5 minutes it bowed again. I am ordering a metal cover to replace the plastic POS!

Be prepared to spend $250 for the metal black or the poly, and $510 for a silver one...

Lostbears, sorry for the delay in responding. But, thank you for your response. I have been told that there is a difference, but by a dealer. I appreciate an unbiased experienced response.