Radio Issues

[m_w]

Plugged in the craig head unit for the first time. Just put in new speakers. I was only getting sound out of the driver side speakers. After playing with the balance, the passenger side speakers would briefly play, then cut out again. The voltage on the lines to those speakers is also low when there is no sound (meaning, I'm confident the problem isn't with the speakers). Does this mean my head unit needs rebuilt? Or is there some wiring or electrical issue I can check out?

[Ron]

Sounds like the balance switch needs cleaning/repair....

[m_w]

Sounds like the balance switch needs cleaning/repair....

I'm willing to attempt a fix if there are any suggestions on what to do or look for?

[TTait]

I agree it sounds like the balance control, but I've never had one of these units apart. You could buy a can of this: http://comingsoon.radioshack.com/radioshack-control-contact-cleaner-and-lubricant/6400148.html#.VZ1rpvlVhBc
and see if you can get some in there - might help. I'd avoid getting any on plastic parts or the rubber components of tape deck, but for the electronic components it should be fine.

[sdg3205]

Start by cleaning the potentiometers with compressed air and alcohol.

[Bitsyncmaster]

I have seen power transistors not work when they have warmed up. My 1974 VEGA did that right from the factory.

[Elvis]

solder joints power stage.

or speaker and wiring.

[Ron]

I'm willing to attempt a fix if there are any suggestions on what to do or look for?
If you can get both sides to play ok when by wiggling the balance switch whether it is hot or cold, and especially if you can find a position that it will play as long as you leave it alone (this eliminates the power transistors suggested), then try to get one of the cleaners suggested inside it, working it , and flushing it out a few times.
It could easily be loose connections to the switch.