[Boatanchors] AD5X RANGER MODS

[Bill and Liz]

I did the AD5X mods to a Ranger a few years ago and have been very pleased with the results.  Phil was very helpful with a sticky problem that developed but after solving it I have had three years of great operating with a much cooler and happier Ranger.  I solid-stated both power supplies and built a bias supply because my Ranger did not have one (early model).  Power output when loaded to about 100 ma is around 50 watts-I don't believe in pushing too hard on power.  Keeping the drive slightly below 2 ma produces a beautiful no-chirp note on all bands.

When I had to get inside the VFO by removing the front panel I did not re-install the front-facing screws which cannot be removed with the panel in place.  Obtain some bolts with the same thread, cut off the head and screw them into the case.  Using a flex gripper you can then install the nuts now facing the front after the cover has been reinstalled.

The replacement of the 6AU6 by a 6AH6 makes quite an improvement in VFO operation as does replacing the OA2 with an OB2.  You may have to experiment with the value of the dropping resistor to the VR tube to make it regulate under key up/down conditions.

One other mod I did was to build a 12V power supply by using the unused 5V rectifier winding in series with the 6V filament.  This powers a changeover relay installed in a box on the rear chassis and activated via a phono jack.  Of course, installation of a chassis fuse and 3-wire AC line cord should be done as well for safety.

My Ranger was an original without the grid-block keying installed, so I built up that circuit as well and installed it on a plate where Johnson installed it when the updated Rangers came out in later years.  It is a very worthwhile addition to the transmitter and very easy to install.

73, Bill VE3NH