Fender VIBRO-KING - Manual (Page 7)

Tube life varies depending upon
playing style and application with
power tubes having a much shorter
life than pre-amp tubes which can last
for years. For continued optimum
performance from your amplifier, the
tubes should ONLY be replaced with the same type
tubes as specified on the tube location label inside
the cabinet.
A simple way to check if the tubes are worn is to
replace the set in your amp with your spare set. (You
do carry spare tubes and fuses, don't you?)
When changing the tubes, ALWAYS unplug the
amplifier and remember THE TUBES ARE HOT!
Either wait for the tubes to cool or use an insulated
oven mitt to remove them from your amplifier.
• First, replace the OUTPUT tubes in the amplifier
and listen.
• Next, re-insert the original output tubes. Replace
the PRE-AMP tubes and listen.
• Finally, try replacing both the OUTPUT and PRE-
AMP tubes and listen.
If there is a marked improvement in the tone of your
amp at any point in this procedure, leave the new
tubes in your amp and purchase another spare set.
Your Vibro-King's tube compliment consists of:
• Two 5881 Tubes (part #099-5090-000),
• Five 12AX7A Tubes (part #099-5091-000),
• One Special Design 6V6 Tube (part #099-5093-000).
If the amp is set up but does not
function, check the following items:
• Is the amp power cord properly
plugged into an electrical outlet?
• Is there power to the outlet?
• Is the fuse blown?
• Is the speaker(s) properly connected to the
amplifier?
• Is the amp on standby?
• Are the amplifier VOLUME, TREBLE, MID and
BASS controls above 0?
• Is the instrument volume control turned up?
• Is the instrument plugged into the amplifier?
(Eliminate any effects pedals and try another
guitar cord.)
Check under all tube covers to see if the tube
filaments are glowing.
If, after checking all of the above, your amplifier is not
performing correctly, consult your nearest authorized
Fender service center.
Your Vibro-King is covered in genuine
Tolex for long life and lasting good
looks. To clean the Tolex covering,
use a sponge and a light soapy water
solution. Avoid spilling liquids on the
operating surfaces, grill, volume and
tone controls, switches and speakers. ALWAYS
unplug your amplifier before cleaning or approaching
it with fluids.
TUBE REPLACEMENT
COVERING CARE
TROUBLESHOOTER’S CHECKLIST