[TenTec] Centurion

[CATFISHTWO@aol.com]

there is a component in side the tube called a "getter" and if storing a  
tube for any length of time while in the radio it is good practice for you to  
turn on the amp for a bit ( like an hour) once a month or so to allow the getter 
 to colect the stray atoms of other gasses let in the tube while being  
manufactured. Especially true on highh power transmit tubes... or so the story  
goes YMMV 
 
tom N6AJR
 
""""""

Often  when those glass tubes set for a while they collect gas,

Usually people  will turn the amp on for a day or so after storage without 
High Voltage to  let the filiments draw the gas out of the tube,

If you apply HV too  soon,  the gas could ionize and blow a hole in the grid. 
Usually with a nice sounding pop....

If you see the purplish color at  the top of the tube when you key the TX,  
you got some gas in the  tube.

This is the most prevelent cause of Tube death for tube  amps.

Check the tubes....

Best  wishes,
Rich
K5SF    """"""