Got a well used example of a TRK-8180EM and just the other day I got it repaired with superglue and a really bad, too long flat belt with some makeshift methods.
Anyway, I took it to the streets with somewhat good batteries (about 1,49 volts on a multimeter).
It played very nice and loud until at some point the left channel just went silent. I could still get both channels to work in Wide mode, but when I turned the balance to the left, it attenuated the output the further left I turned it.
I checked that the speakers are ok as left speakers worked when I switched left and right (connector in reverse).
Also seems to have all potentiometers and switches in good working condition, no static. Continuity and connections between the sound control pcb and the main board is ok.
Poking around with a small screw driver I could get some normal popping on both channels so seems like the amp chip is still good.
Both VU needles are bouncing normally.
I also went through every bad looking solder joint and there were many! Couldn't see any clearly damaged components on the boards.
When turned on, volume at min, there is the normal audible background hiss on both channels, but increasing volume only affects the right channel, making the hiss more audible. When I turn it to Wide mode, both channels are hissing, but if I turn the balance all the way to left, there is again only the normal audible background hiss.
Can't find a free service manual. 8080E seems very different.
