[Boatanchors] AM Strategy & 4-1000 & tube preamp & other dalliances

[W8KZW]

I am considering putting together an AM station again, and the options lying
around the basement are:

TX:  Johnson Ranger, Heathkit Apache
RX:  Hammarlund HQ-170A, Collins 75A-1

I'm leaning toward the HQ-170A, but I'd like some feedback from others.  I
run an S-line on ssb/cw, so I don't really care about the Collins panache
with the receiver.  I also got past all that when I ran a 32V-3 and 75A-3
combo on AM.

For transmitting, I'm guessing the frequency stability and audio quality is
better out of the chute on the Ranger.  Right now I don't have the time for
heavy-duty audio mods, but please let me know if there are any great
articles out there regarding that for either rig.

Also, how silly would it be to drive a homebrew 4X1 amp with the TX?  Any
thoughts on the best amplifier plate voltage / power out?  I'm sure purists
will be be up in arms on the architecture of not modulating the final, but
realistically ... this should provide a respectable signal?  I doubt I'd
want to run more than about 400 watts out.

Finally, I have a tube-type Heathkit audio preamp.  Any value in inserting
this between the microphone and the audio-in connector on the rig?

Thanks to all in advance for the input.  I sure miss the simple days of
building a DX-60A & HG-10 to get on AM as I did in 1966!

73,
Jeff
W8KZW
Near Detroit