I've done this on many pieces of equipment, but would like to find the "appropriate" punch ?I would too. I have a punch set I bought at Harbor Freight - but it only does round holes (you see these on ebay too). The set cost $15 and it includes 4 different size dies. The other problem is the smallest die is too large for an IEC, otherwise I could start there and nibble away the remainder. I searched the internet for an IEC shaped die thinking someone would make one. The closest I came was a rectangular die for $500. Surely someone can do better on that price.
Install IEC male socket or not??
Hi. I own a Threshold Forte Model 3, which is a superb solid-state amp. It is a bit older though, and it still has its original slender power cord and two-prong plug. This is a 200 wpc (8 ohms) amp with high bias and high current, and it just seems to me that I ought to install a male IEC socket on the rear panel and buy a proper power cord. I do worry about ruining the resale value though, and I've even heard these old Nelson Pass amps have some modest collector value. I welcome all learned opinions!!
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The only alternative I came up with would be to take an IEC inlet and trace it (scribe) to a small, square piece of material, cut it out to perfect size, then use it as an overlay-template guide. Surely, a company that does mods must use some modern method (IEC punch) other than nibbling or a dremel tool. I'll call a few places tomorrow and ask. |
Yes there is an IEC chassis punch available from Greenlee; I don't know where but I saw one in a catalog somewhere... Actually there is a simple method to modify for testing upgrade cords without butchering the back panel, and at nominal cost. If you like the results then that can be done later... If not then you can easily go back to stock. I have previously posted this many times; here it is again: Start by getting a male-prong IEC (which you may end up installing later - or not) there's many sources for this. Cut the stock cord within about 6" of the component. Strip the ends and solder on your IEC. Use heat shrink sleeving, or at very least electrical tape, to insulate the bare connections. If you want to return to stock cord, then just strip both the ends and solder-splice together again (or use butt-crimp connectors). Again use heat shrink sleeving for a professional appearance. You can heat the sleeving with the soldering iron, or a hot hair dryer, or even a butane lighter if you're careful. |
a slightly more attractive alternative is to get one of these. I have used these in a few situations but don't like the pig tale dangling. They can be as effective as a flush mount IEC though, and super easy to install. Parts Connexion use to stock them but I couldn't find a good quality on their site this am. |
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