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How to Repair a Flyback TV

Flybacks are transformers used in television sets that employ a cathode ray picture tube. It is part of the circuitry that creates the high voltage which feeds the picture tube anode. Flyback transformers are under a lot of high-voltage stress and after a number of years of operation they can fail, usually by an electrical arcing to the outside covering of the transformer. This arcing creates a small hole and the burning cover carbonizes and smokes.

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver
Jumper lead with alligator clip ends
Silicon caulk

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the TV and remove the back.
- 2
  Discharge the picture tube and high-voltage circuitry by clipping one end of a jumper lead that has alligator clips on both ends onto the TV's metal chassis and the other end of the jumper to the metal shaft of a screwdriver.
- 3
  Hold the insulated screwdriver's handle and push the screwdriver's shaft up under the rubber anode cap on the picture tube. This is the big suction cup-like connector you'll easily see attached to the side or top of the picture tube. Leave the screwdriver there for at least three minutes to ensure all high voltage has been discharged.
- 4
  Locate the pinpoint hole on the flyback were arcing has occurred. With a small screwdriver, carefully scrap away any black carbon from around the hole.
- 5
  Fill the hole and surrounding area with clear silicon. Small tubes of silicon, used as a kitchen and bath caulk, are readily available to local hardware stores. Apply the silicon liberally. It doesn't have to look pretty.
- 6
  Wait 24 hours to ensure the silicon is completely dry, forming a rubber-like texture.
- 7
  Replace the back on the TV and turn it on, while watching to see that there is no arcing and that there is a normal picture on the TV.

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