If the bleeder/equalizing resistors are stable, the discharge time can be
calculated. So, you can determine the capacity of the electrolytic
capacitors without even taking the amp apart.
If you are lazy or calculator impaired, you can simply time the discharge
time (to a known low voltage), using the panel voltmeter, when the
electrolytics are new and jot the information in your manual. Then, once a
year note the decay time. Less capacitance means faster discharge time.
This does make the assumption that the resistors are stable - which is not
necessarily a good assumption if you are using carbon comp resistors.
Since the electrolytics are in series, a decay in any one will reduce the
time constant.
73, Colin K7FM
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