[ARC5] ARC-5 Mods

[Kevin Berlen]

Hello all. I have lurked on this list for several years, but have not 
posted previously. I enjoy the
discussion regarding these fine sets, and have appreciated them ever 
since my "elmer" helped
me get a BC-455 working as part of my novice station in 1975. I have 
a small collection currently,
but always look at hamfests for another unit to bring home.

I thought I would offer an alternative, if un-popular, view of some 
of the modifications that have
been performed upon these fine old radios.

Somewhat like classic aircraft, I believe that there is room for both 
100% original non-modifed
units, and for units that have been subjected to some sort of 
modification to make them practical
and reliable to operate. I would have never developed my long lasting 
affection for these units had
I not been introduced to them for use in my novice station (paired 
with a DX-40).

The analogy that comes to my mind is one featuring one of the 
aircraft that these units were
installed in, the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress. I visit the Air Force 
Museum at Wright-Patterson
often. It is wonderful to see a completely restored, authentic B-17 
on display. This aircraft has
been stone cold since it's restoration several years ago. It is a 
pristine example for all future
generations of what a B-17 isand should be.

This summer, I had the privilege of attending an air show where one 
of the remaining flight
worthy B-17's made an appearance. When this aircraft made a low pass 
down the flight line,
with all four engines screaming, flying, in the air, doing the job it 
was designed to do, the
hair on the back of my neck stood up. It was a marvellous experience. 
This same show
featured no less than five B-47/DC-3's and seven P-51 Mustangs. Given 
the choice between
the museum example, and one out, being used, in my mind the choice is 
simple. I would
rather experience the operational aircraft.

I guess the point I am driving at is, in my opinion, these radios 
will be appreciated by some
who otherwise my not have picked one up if they are put in shape to 
be used regularly. I have
always been in awe of the engineering and attention to detail that 
went into the design and
manufacture of these radios. Hopefully others who pick one up will 
develop the same appreciation
for them.

I certainly would not condone modification of pristine sets today, 
but finding a unit that has
already been modified at a hamfest is not difficult, and "improving 
it" as was featured in the
recent QST article, I can see nothing wrong with. Just my .02 worth. 73,

Kevin, K9HX