[Collins] WTB: 30L-1

[Fred Neff]

Although I originally wanted to build a 30L-1 from old scrap/salvaged parts, 
my quest has yielded zero results.  Failing that, I am now in search of a 
complete, or nearly complete 30L-1 in what I believe is officially referred 
to as Collins-Collectors "trashpile" grade.  Cosmetics is of NO CONCERN!  
Rust, corrosion, or burns, dents, dings or poltergeist don't matter.  Yes, 
economics is a factor, although I may end up spending more to resurrect a 
"Frankenstein" than to buy a working unit, but I need a project that I can't 
hurt, and really want a 30L-1.  I have been a paramedic nearly twenty years 
now, and it just suits me to resurrect one of these units from the "dead".  
It doesn't matter how long it takes.  As much as I want the extra power 
"right now" to match with my KWM2-A, its more about the journey than the 
destination.  I have two sons, one six, the other ten (...I started 
late...), who are already learning auto mechanics and love nothing more than 
to assist me with antenna and tower projects, or just listen to me when I'm 
on the air.  I want to teach them everything that we all know will be lost 
in another generation or two if we don't pass it on.  Arcane technology (and 
repair in general) are prime examples.  And it seems like its arcane 
technology that always works on field day.  I know that somewhere out there, 
one of these gems (in the rough) is sitting under a workbench, or up in an 
attic, or down in a basement, or garage just gathering dust, too messed up 
to really want to fix, but its a Collins and its just not right to just 
throw it out.  You know who you are...its been there for several years now, 
and you know you're never going to find the time or patience to do this old 
gal justice.  Now is your chance to assuage your guilt and pass a piece of 
formerly-living history on, to be brought back from the nether-regions of 
Purgatory, or worse.  It's either that or run a contest..."Worst Condition 
30L-1" with a $100 prize for the winner....(LOL).  Don't get me wrong, once 
it's working, I intend to do everything I can to fully restore it...clean, 
straighten, polish, paint..in good time.
73's
C. Fred Neff
KB9RMT
PS. On the other hand, a "rough" working unit, sans case, or knobs, badly 
mangled, ugly mods, etc. could be a candidate if the price is right.  I 
still want a 30L-1, but one that I can afford.

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