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Rookie; replace my own amplifier caps??

Hi. I am mechanically oriented generally, and I have a knack for fixing things. I am decent with a soldering iron, and I understand the concept of "wicking" away old solder to replace a part. I love DIY projects. I have no, I say again no, training in electronics whatsoever, however. I am told that my 2001 Odyssey Audio Stratus Plus (120,000 uF capacitance) solid-state amp (I love it) likely needs cap replacements. I understand that "preventative" cap replacement is a hotly debated topic within itself; assume for my question the amp needs cap replacement. Is it likely that I could order a bucketload of Blackgate (or higher quality) caps of the correct values from PartsXpress and succesfully complete this project on my own? (Yes, I would unplug the amp) Thanks!
klipschking
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
If you want a DIY project then change the large electrolytic caps in the power supply. While it isn't technically challenging, it won't be cheap.
If I were you I would contact Klaus for advice. Maybe he'll make you a deal on the replacement caps.
FWIW, I would think the caps are still fine.
kijanki's avatar
kijanki
4,413 posts
 
I agree with Jallen, that Jeffrey is spot on. I calculated from data provided by Nichicon on large electrolytic caps (I published it in different thread) that standard cap running in 35degC (95degF) has 80% of capacitance after 17.8 years. Long life or 105degC caps have much longer life. I would like to repeat what Jeffrey and Jallen said - don't have a cow, man - don't worry about it if it sounds good to you.
orpheus10
8,668 posts
 
It's a piece of cake. If you know + from -, go for it. After 10 years is a good time for cap replacement. Caps don't always go bad, they just get sluggish and the amp loses definition.
btselect
26 posts
 
True temperature is a key factor but also listed are other factors. I like to use cars as an example because we all can relate to it. The old lady down the road that uses her car once a week to go shopping a block away going 20mph versus a young man who thinks he is in a car race every time he gets into his car and racks up more mileage in a day than that lady will do in a year, no matter if he owns the best or most expensive car, my bet would be his car will need a lot more maintenance and repair and a lot sooner.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
>>09-25-11: Orpheus10
After 10 years is a good time for cap replacement.<<

That is very bad advice.

Ignore it.
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