[Boatanchors] A VERY Interesting "Mini-Boatanchor" -Longish-

[Robert Nickels]

Philip Atchley wrote:
> I suspect that it fetched a fair number of those Post-war dollars to 
> buy.  I kind of wonder of it wasn't originally intended for the 
> military as a morale radio, but the war ended too soon?
>
> Thoughts?
I think you're right about the original price, Phil - not sure about the 
possible war connection.  Someone gave my Dad one of these years ago and 
naturally it came to roost here.  Never have got it working, although I 
think I did get the synchronous vibrator to buzz.  I haven't had it out 
of the cabinet, I'm still not sure what's underneath that 
formidable-looking cast aluminum chassis.

Now you need to find its mate - the GE Model 260, which is identical in 
outer appearance and uses the same basic chassis, but adds shortwave 
coverage on the 16, 19, 25, 31, and 49 meter SW bands. That was 
sufficient motivation to try to get this one working, but that was 
before a move about 5 years ago when some of the trim pieces and 
pushbuttons got packed away  I do plan to get this one going when I run 
across them.

As for the Willard wet cell, I don't know if anyone is making them 
anymore, but I doubt it.  My plan was to put a Gates "Cyclon" sealed 
lead acid battery in it's place, I think it will fit w/o modifications 
(which would be a crime!).  Neat radio - let me know if you get 'er 
playing Phil

Pix of both at the bottom of this page: 
http://www.bn.com.br/radios-antigos/germany/portatge.htm

73, Bob W9RAN