This listing is being superseded by # 336199364082. The new listing includes options for adding the two largest capacitors. When the last kit in this listing is sold, this listing will not be renewed, but the same kits will be available as item 336199364082.
This set of low voltage capacitors seeks to address a common issue with Sunfire Subwoofer amplifiers. Unlike my other kits for three other versions of Sunfire subwoofers, this kit is new and is still being developed. Unlike the HRS, True, Architectural and Junior models, I have not worked on the EQ model. This kit is being developed in response to requests by EQ owners for a kit. This listing currently does not include the high voltage pair of capacitors, (but the other listing noted above has that option).
Four 1000 uF capacitors in the power supply are vulnerable and are replaced with upgraded Panasonic low-ESR versions (C1A, C65, C148, and C170). This may be all that is required to address a hum. Not as likely to fail and not as easy to replace are two 47 uF high voltage capacitors (C39 and C73), and upgrade replacements are included. On that same board two 470 uF capacitors can be replaced (C41, C62). On a daughterboard two 220 uF capacitors may be replaced/upgraded (C143).
I recognize that Sunfire carried over use of some vulnerable capacitors from the earlier True series to the EQ, and have included upgraded Panasonic low-ESR type FR capacitors to replace them. Typically I also increase the voltage rating, where practical.
As buyers share results and suggestions how to improve this kit, I will modify this listing to provide more help, photos, identification numbers and possibly more components.
Four cautions:
1). Most importantly, observe proper safety precautions. These amplifiers store dangerous voltages in two 200 volt capacitors and in circuits connected to them, even after the amplifier has been unplugged for days. Handling circuits that can still hold high voltage is not something a novice should attempt. I always discharge those capacitors through a resistor before beginning work.
2) While these capacitors address a problem so common that I would address it automatically with every one of these amplifiers as a starting point, there could be additional problems beyond what this kit addresses. Using this kit does not assure that your amplifier will be repaired.
3) Desoldering and soldering is required for installation. Be careful not to press on the copper trace or pad when desoldering, nor overheat it, or it may lift. If that happens, note where the trace on the top side of the board connects, so that you can be sure you have correct continuity with the new component. Using a jumper may be necessary. Double-check your work.
4) Be sure to observe correct polarity with the diodes and capacitors. Each component needs to be oriented facing the correct direction (+ and -). Condition is "New".
A Tip on Large Capacitor Replacement:
First discharge any electrical charge.
Second, desolder both pins, so that ONLY adhesive is holding the capacitor. You don’t want to pull a copper socket out of the circuit board’s holes. If you are sure the terminal/pin is not stuck to the board, then I would gently pry one side of the capacitor up. Warming the board with a heat gun (not too hot) can loosen adhesive and make it more flexible. If there is a chance one or both of the two pins may be still soldered to the sides of the socket, I would use a soldering pencil to heat the terminal closest to the side I am trying to loosen, so that I know the solder is not holding.
Then alternate sides to incrementally back the capacitor up and away from the board until both pins are free and the capacitor is out.
Anecdotal Reports:
Individual reports are no guarantees of universal results, but with electronics if numerous examples see the same problems and solutions, cumulative results become very useful. As of May 2024, I can report my first response from an EQ owner to whom I recommended replacing four 1000 uF capacitors (which are included in this kit), "I did replace the 4 capasitors [sic] and all the hum was gone! No other replacement was needed."