V-4 replacement octal sockets for use with 6550s

[beedoola]

I drilled out the original tube retainers on my v4 and installed some spring retainers but then realized the stock power tube sockets sit flush with the chassis so I can't get the 6550 to fully seat into the socket so I'll need to order some new sockets that are bottom mount and still out below the chassis. Any suggestions on what socket brand/type to get?

[Hangman]

Beedoola,

Getting bottom mount sockets is definitely an option, but it would be cheaper and less effort to use rivets. You can find pop rivets at any hardware store, and they will hold the sockets in pretty tight. This is the method I've used when I've done 6550/KT-88 conversions in the past.

[beedoola]

Thanks, Hangman.

There will still be a slight amount of gap because of the height of the tab for the retainers - I got the spring kind. Will that be an issue for the power tubes as they won’t be fully seated into the socket.