Air Chief Radio

[Longhurst]

May be a silly request but I am looking for a "Diamond Dot" Air Chief Radio to complete my original FC.
This will replace the under dash in car out of car unit of the early 60's vintage
Thanks Peter

[slim]

I have an FE one at home , but I think they are different to Fc. I also have one in an FE im currently selling. Ill keep an eye open for you . Try ACE he has a few I believe  !

[RET]

There are original radios both with and without the "Diamond Dot".  However, what made the D/Dot special was the fact that it was transistorized, replacing the valve and vibrator units that had been in all previous models.  These were introduced in 1959, so if you're looking for concours perfection, don't put one in an FE or 1958 FC.  There were a variety of push-button and manual Air Chief radios released for the FE and FC.  There are more details in our Tech Info section on Nasco accessories.

cheers
RET

[Longhurst]

Thanks Ret and Slim. My FC was manufactured in January 59 is this too early for the transistor unit. If so I will keep your comments in mind if I ever find one.
Peter

[RET]

Given that there were a very limited number of accessories actually factory-fitted (of which the radio was not one), you could argue that any radio Air-Chief or otherwise is not "as it left the factory".  You could then extend that argument to include pretty much every accessory.

After all, who's to say that the radio wasn't fitted by the original owner after he'd had the car 12 months?  In which case the radio stocked at dealers would have been the transistor job.

I know I'm arguing against what I wrote earlier.  It's all very philosophical ;)
For what it's worth tho there are pictures and some comments about which radios suit which model on the pages I referred you to the other day.

cheers
RET

[4hammers]

True!!
Down here in TAS, the dealer used to fit different aerials when they fitted the radios. Little metal balls on top. Also, there are 2 cars in our cllub (One which is my wagon), which had little brass fire extinguishers fitted at the dealer BEFORE they left the showroom. So, is that "Original", or aftermarket.
Hmm, not sure.
Can be confusing.
Rob J

[Longhurst]

Thanks for the information. I have the details from the NASCO page which indicates that the transistor model radios were introduced in late 58 so I will keep looking for either a Dimond Dot or a manual control type.
Thanks for the advice Peter

[ACE]

 :D Hi Peter
      I have a FC Air Chief radio in working order.
      Phone 0427430044
       Regards ACE 8)

[Longhurst]

I am now the proud owner of a Diamond Dot thanks ACE
Item closed.
Peter