Notes on repair of Bendix Model 22BD AM Radio


I had the opportunity to repair this radio, original optional equipment in a '62 Falcon.

Symptom: fairly good sound at startup, degrading gradually over 20 minutes to squealing/static.  Loss of bass response.

Repair 1: Loss of bass response was caused by a faulty capacitor, C10, which is 0.1uf 100v.  The schematic shows it as being an electrolytic, but it isn't, and I replaced it with a modern equivalent.  I also replaced C9, same value, in a different circuit, because it's likely to be nearly as worn, having operated in the same conditions, and they're cheap parts.

Repair 2: The squealing/static was caused by bad connections at the amplifier transistor wires, and one wire from that transistor's emitter to the PCB.  These are not originally soldered at all, merely crimped, and 40 years of exposure to varied humidity take their toll.


Front view of the 22BD.
Bendix 22BD top view, with cover & rear brace removed. View of bracket which obscures the back of the amplifier transistor. View of the back of the amplifier transistor (bracket removed). Old & New caps to replace, in scale Where the new caps go Solder this!
Bendix 22BD Schematic

For more information, see the Radio section of the Falcon Shop Manual

24Jul2023: Glenn Petersen emailed me:

I would like to contribute to the Falcon page. My son has a 1962 Falcon.

The car came without a radio, and I was able to find a 22BD that was not working very well. The schematic in the repair manual was kinda similar, and even the SAMS photofact version was just like the copy in the manual - close but no cigar.

I found this manual for sale and purchased it. It turned out it was a perfect match.

BENDIX MODEL: R22BFF
SERIAL NUMBER PREFIX: 22BD
FORD PART NUMBER: C2DZ-18805A

Please put it on the FALCON/COMET FAQ web page with the other car radio info.

Link: BENDIX 22BD RADIO MANUAL FORD C2DZ-18805A.pdf