Re: Effects of Humidity

[GOFFProf@aol.com]

Colin Spence was EXACTLY right.  The effects of cold & humidity on an organ
cabinet and electronics are minimal in a consistent environment, such as an
ice skating rink.  (good call CS!)

CABINET-- The problems occur when an organ is constantly moved between dry
and humid conditions.  The cabinet naturally assumes the average moisture
content of the environment.  When that mioisture content suddenly rises
dramatically, the organ cabinet slowly absorbs moisture (and slightly swells)
and finally levels out to the more-humid environment.  When it is again moved
to a dry environment, it begins to dry out slowly (and slightly shrinks),
until it equalizes to the dryer environment.

The changes in moisture content and corresponding physical cabinet CHANGES
cause the organ cabinet to become unstable and "rickety" as with any fine
piece of furniture. If you experience this, the cabinet legs (such as on B-3)
can be removed, reglued, and reattached.  It is most noticible on the weaker
joints near the bottom of the organ, around the pedal section.  

ELECTRONICS - The tonewheel generator, electronics, etc. are usually
unaffected EXCEPT that rust and corrosion occur in moist environments where
the humidity is high enough for a mist or film to form.  Many organs slowly
rust to death in these (and salt water) environments.  If a moisture film
forms on components inside the tube preamp, high-voltage flashovers to ground
can occur and make a mess of things!  Imagine dropping an old tube radio in a
tub.... you get the idea.

COLD WEATHER-  To use an organ in the extreme cold or in an unheated space, I
suggest that a 40 or 60 watt bulb / socket be installed inside the cabinet as
a heater.  If you need to use the organ, the internal "heater" keeps the
organ interior relatively warm and the generator oil warm enough so it will
flow and allow the generator to start.   

Leslie motors will also fail to spin if they get too cold due to the oil
becoming too thick.  They MUST be warmed up prior to use and not allowed to
be powered when sluggish or frozen or they will quickly burn out!  A very
light penetrating oil sometimes helps to free up a very cold or otherwise
frozen motor. But NEVER use the new Teflon-based oils in a Tonewheel
Generator!  (I posted a long note on this previously)

SO--- Keep 'em warm or keep 'em cold, BUT don't do both!  The middle is
"Jusssst  Riiiiiight", as somebody famous once said about beds, porridge,
etc.  

Al