Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2008 09:32:36 -0400
From: "Curtis H. Wilbar Jr."
I believe the proper name for the water-based colloidal graphite
suspension used to coat CRT surfaces is "aquadag". "Dag" is probably
just a shortened form. Aquadag paint for repair should still be
available.
Some old HOTs (horizontal output transformers/flyback transformer) in
CRT HV supplies develop cracks in the potting material with age and
sometimes expose the connection of the winding to the HV anode lead.
This can cause a corona discharge and the ozone smell. There can
also be arcing from the HV lead to the chassis. A lights-out
inspection will sometimes yield the telltale purple glow of corona
discharge. Often, the discharge can be heard by young ears as a
"hissing" sound.
Good old red glyptal HV dope is the most commonly prescribed cure for
insulation failures. I think GC still sells the stuff.
Cheers,
Chuck