[Boatanchors] troubleshooting for idiot savants (or just idiots)

[jeff]

I built a shortwave converter kit from Vectronics.  It converts a
1060kHz slice of two SW bands to tune on an AM radio.

I shoulda noticed that the instructions were off when I found a cap that
wasn't mentioned in the installation section.  When trying to align it,
it appeared that the bandswitch was backwards.


1. local oscillator alignment: 
Set AM radio to oscillator freq, adj trimmer until heard on radio
(no mention made of how to get the signal to the radio - I used a direct
connection from the +output to the radio's +antenna in)

2. [align w/freq counter] make `gimmick capacitor' from 2-3" wire,
twisted together.  Used to couple the local osc signal from pin 7 of the
IC to counter input.  Cables MUST be very short to prevent attenuation.
(am I supposed to connect it, lay it over the IC, near the board, across
the room, or in Outer Mongolia?)


I seem to be able to get one of the oscillator freqs to appear but
that's about it.  I can't tune any stations, even with decent external
antennas.  

Since I can get a freq to appear, the oscillator has to be working,
which is essentially what this kit is.  I'm at a loss as to how to
troubleshoot from here  (bloody RF...)   [Shoulda used tubes!]




Suggestions appreciated.

"Semi-Oscillated in PA"