Is it a Bad Tube or a Bad fuse (Fuse Fatigue)?


My D. Sachs Kootenay 120 started having distortion on the right channel. It sounded like static. So I switched out #1 (right side) with #4 (left side). I did the same with # 2 & 3. Then when I turned on the amp, the right channel was now gone. All tubes are lit up but no sound in right channel. The amp has fuses on each power tube. Sure enough, after checking the socket I find #1 fuse is blown. 

Here’s my dilemma. Which tube is bad? #4, now in #1 slot? Or # 1, now in #4 slot. Don says not to use that tube because it blew the fuse. But with the static in right channel prior to changing the tubes around, I’m skeptical and wonder what if the culprit was the fuse on #1 socket? So I look up the idea of a weak fuse. Do fuses become weakened over time and found that is the case. Its called fuse fatigue. Everything else wears out over time so why not a fuse

So this begs the question. Are the KT88 Gold Lion tubes still good and was the main culprit fuse fatigue?  These fuses are subminiature 250 Mv. The tubes are only 1 -2 yrs old and usually get weekend workouts. So I’m skeptical. But I don’t have a tester and don’t want to use my amp as a tube tester. And I’m told that a tester may not pick up the bad tube? So what are my options other than spend the $200 for a new pair? Thanks for the help

128x128artemus_5

Why not put new fuses in and try it again? you don't have a tester so unless your going to change them all you have to try it with new fuses. If it blows the fuse again you know its a tube and will have a good idea which tube. just make sure you use the correct fuse rating/type for the application.  Also look for red plating that could be a good indication other things in the amp are the issue. is the amp self biased? could be a bias resistor failing in that #1 spot. I'm not sure what bias scheme they use. 

good luck. 

Glennewdick, Sorry I didn't make it clear, but I have replaced the fuse and have another set of tubes in place which plays fine. My question is whether the fuse caused the problem in and of itself which means the tubes are good. Or did the tube blow and take out the fuse?

Glennewdick, There was no red plating. Also, The amp is auto biasing. I hate to throw away $200 worth of tubes, especially when they don't have that much time on them. 

Artemus are you able to get the tubes tested? Otherwise that's quite the quandary perhaps sending a note to Don Sachs might give you some clarity?

Fuses are designed to be good or to blow. an in-between situation that you call "fatigue" is very rare. My guess is the fuses are fine.

Pick one location and put the old tubes into that location one at a time until you identify the bad tube.

The others will be fine so long as your auto bias can bias them. I much prefer manual bias. Manual bias with a meter is a type of tube tester. I can see which tubes are degrading.