[Boatanchors] DRAKE 2B Update

[Joe Connor]

Thank you to all who gave me advice and guidance on this radio.

I picked up this set (and the Q multiplier/speaker) at a garage sale for $10. It was filthy and looked like it had not been used in 40+ years.  But it looked intact, it is a Drake and the price was right, so I bought it. I hoped all that it needed was some TLC and a new home. It's my first Drake.

1.  The set is now working on all bands. A NOS 6U8 helped accomplish that.

2.  The set is playing pretty well. I found, however, that a 6BE6 had been subbed for a 6BF6. I have a 6BF6 on order and I hope that the correct tube will improve performance even more. 

3.  I have a replacement filter cap can on order. I'll feel more comfortable with new 'lytics installed, although I can't detect any hum.

4. I was so impressed with the set's performance on 41m SW broadcasts that I've ordered crystals that will help me receive other SW bands. 

After spending a couple of evenings fiddling with this set on the ham bands and on 41m, I'll be keeping an eye open for Drake sets at all future hamfests. This one is a keeper.


                                   Joe Connor