Hey George:
Many, many have made the same mistake, but probably will not admit it. The amp should not be distorting. By definition, if it sounds different than before the accident, it is the result of damage. The easy thing is to start by replacing all of the fuses, both inside and on the back of the amp. Even when fuses look good, they can be damaged. The reason that they are there is to guard against damage to the circuitry. Of course, if the distortion is in only one channel, then only the fuses in that channel need to be replaced. Note that the power supply caps can carry lethal voltages, even when the amp is turned off. Safety would suggest that you discharge them before working inside of the amp, or at least, leave the amp off for a couple of days.
If this does not work, you have probably done some minor damage to the circuitry and the amp should go to a good local repair shop.
Many, many have made the same mistake, but probably will not admit it. The amp should not be distorting. By definition, if it sounds different than before the accident, it is the result of damage. The easy thing is to start by replacing all of the fuses, both inside and on the back of the amp. Even when fuses look good, they can be damaged. The reason that they are there is to guard against damage to the circuitry. Of course, if the distortion is in only one channel, then only the fuses in that channel need to be replaced. Note that the power supply caps can carry lethal voltages, even when the amp is turned off. Safety would suggest that you discharge them before working inside of the amp, or at least, leave the amp off for a couple of days.
If this does not work, you have probably done some minor damage to the circuitry and the amp should go to a good local repair shop.