Element FLX-3211B

[Afterlyfe101]

My Element FLX-3211B TV will turn on but the screen is black and there is still sound. I opened it up and from what I can tell, the only thing off about it is that two of the round black parts (capacitors?) look like they have white stuff coming out of them. Is that enough to cause that problem? If not then what is likely the problem and what do I need to buy/do to fix it? My mother got it at Circuit City so I doubt the warranty is still valid. Any help is appreciated.

[tom66]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

Can we see a picture of the suspects?

[selldoor]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

First check the warranty - before you start any work on it.
You will need a multimeter and soldering equipment and a camera.

Welcome to the forum-
We can help a lot more if you please post good clear pictures of the whole chassis, and then pictures of each board, front and back (in the same orientation) and close up of connectors, (max resolution 2000x2000 and 2MB) using the manage attachments button, which is found by clicking "go advanced" under quick reply.

Please do not post inline and offsite as they slow down the loading of pages.

Examples of what is needed

https://www.badcaps.net/forum/attach...7&d=1280167246

https://www.badcaps.net/forum/attach...6&d=1280167246

https://www.badcaps.net/forum/attach...4&d=1280167246

It will be useful if you can say a bit about yourself - skills tools etc.

[Afterlyfe101]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

I'll get to work on getting those pictures, thanks.

[Afterlyfe101]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

Here's the top of the boards, it's gonna take some work getting them out to shoot the bottoms. I'm a make ready maintenance worker but I have no experience when it comes to tv/computer electronics but I've installed thermostats and light/power outlets before. At the moment I only have a screwdriver and needle nose pliers, my other tools are at work. Sorry if I didn't add the pics right, first time posting them like this.

https://www.badcaps.net/forum/attach...1&d=1358719088
https://www.badcaps.net/forum/attach...1&d=1358719088
https://www.badcaps.net/forum/attach...1&d=1358719088

[tom66]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

I think those 10uF/450V capacitors are bulging; just about "PROVIEW" logo.
It's a very common issue on this chassis.
Paul678 just fixed the same model a few days ago.

[Afterlyfe101]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

I think those 10uF/450V capacitors are bulging; just about "PROVIEW" logo.
It's a very common issue on this chassis.
Paul678 just fixed the same model a few days ago.

Yes, those two are rounded. In the "cages" I can't tell but the ones I can feel don't seem to be rounded.

[tom66]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

Two of these should sort the TV out:
http://www.digikey.com/product-detai...1458-ND/589199
+$2.75 shipping in most of USA.

I forgot to mention all Paul678 did was to replace those caps, and it appears that several others have had this problem before.

[selldoor]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

Ok If you mean the two black components in the bottom right corner next to two red/brown rectangult ones then two bright blue in the corner then
1, they are not capacitors
2, It is just Glue.


Turning to the other board there are two caps that look bloated.

Main worry is the big cap on its side that says 25/105/V40
on it looks very bulged at the end. It needs further investigation before you continue as it could explode.

The pictures are not really clear enough - probably not taken in enough light. =

[Afterlyfe101]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

Thanks for all the help. Okay, so if I replace those two that should fix it and if not it's something bigger? Do I need a specific kind of soldering iron and solder? Anything I need to know since it's my first time doing this?

[selldoor]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

Depends on whether its a one off fix or investment for the future. Min watt iron is 25w
40w might be better or an adjustable one if they are not too expensive.
One where you can put different tips in is good.
Ideally some leaded solder 40/60 with flux in it. Some more flux and some de soldering braid about 2mm wide ( I use - other members have other preferences)

In this post there is a link to some soldering ideas
https://www.badcaps.net/forum/showpo...91&postcount=2

[Afterlyfe101]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

Could the large 25/105/V40 cap be the problem? I can't touch it but the top is bulged, not sure if it's just the way it is but there isn't any resistance when I push it in with a screwdriver. Just tried replacing those 2 caps and no luck.

Edit:
Selldoor- I just realized you posted your concern about the big cap, I feel SO stupid for overlooking it after I read about the 2 smaller caps and thinking that would fix it. My head is in my hands, heh. So after replacing those two and it still not working, I guess I replace the big cap now and see?

[Dgtech]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

We keep running into these same power supplies either with Polaroid, Element, or Memorex sets.

Common failures are:
1. Those two caps that you replaced, make sure you put them in the right direction.
2. The intermediate fuse - green near the transformer around middle top of the board.
3. D10 shorted - this usually causes the TV not to come on at all.

With your symptoms, I find it hard to be anything other than the components in the high voltage section for the lamps or the lamps themselves. I'm shocked that since you do have sound - nobody has yet suggested that you look at the screen with a flashlight to see if you have a picture. These are the basics with this set. I've worked on a few so I know a little about their characteristics. I have one of these in my bedroom that I kept. Nice little set.

[Afterlyfe101]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

Is there a way to tell if the intermediate fuse is the problem? And I have no idea how to buy or replace the big cap (I guess it's mounted differently) or the fuse (if that turns out to be the problem), a link to the correct item in the store like tom66 provided would be appreciated.

[selldoor]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

If you can depress the end of the cap it is probably not bulged - it is only the plastic disk they have put in across the end.

You can test the fuse with a multimeter or even with battery and a bulb.

[Dgtech]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

I hope you did install the caps in the right direction. To speak frankly, if you are unsure how to test the fuse, you should look on ebay for a replacement board. Testing the fuse is more simple than checking any other parts.

Did you do the flashlight test?

If you search for a replacement board, make sure you pay attention to the board revision. There were about three different ones that look alike.

[Afterlyfe101]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

I installed the caps correctly and I did the flashlight test and checked the fuse, still nothing. I can't find whole boards on ebay, where should I look?

Forgot to mention it hums when turned on, in case that's significant though I guess that's normal. I'm at the point where I'm about ready to wait for my tax return.

[mikeviers]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

How do you read the value of the big cap mentioned here? 25/105/for
I have the same issue as above 2 blown caps 10uf 450v and the big cap is bulging as well but don't know how to order it. Thanks

[Dgtech]

Re: Element FLX-3211B

The big cap most likely is good. Just replace the two smaller ones.