[Elecraft] K2 power cable

[Don Brown]

Hi

First do not try to use the plugs from Radio Shack they will not take the
larger wire. The plug that comes with the K2 is a Switchcraft part and is
much heaver duty. I use red/black 18 Ga speaker wire from Radio Shack.
Separate the red and black wires about 1/2 inch and strip the black wire
almost all the way back to the separation. Tin the wire and insert in the
hole in the connector strain relief. Quickly solder this wire and clip off
the excess flush with the bottom of the strain relief. Using needle nose
pliers crimp the strain relief around the black wire only. Cut the red wire
so it is just a little longer than the center terminal and strip and tin the
wire as well as the terminal. Now slip a short piece of shrink on the wire
and quickly solder the wire to the terminal then slip the shrink up on the
terminal and wire and heat to shrink it down. Slip the cover on the plug and
tighten it hand tight


Don Brown
KD5NDB

----- Original Message -----
From: "Indy" <kt5x@cnsp.com>
To: <elecraft@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Sunday, February 23, 2003 1:25 PM
Subject: [Elecraft] K2 power cable


Thanks to the several thoughtful replies!  I think I have spotted the
problem... and this may offer others some help:

I have heavy gauge wire going from the battery to a junction baox, and
similarly from the junction box to the radio.  so where is the problem?

the problem as that both cables are terminated in radioshack accessory plugs
(like for a cigarette lighter) and each has a thin wire fuse inside it.
these fuses may be six amps, but the wire is none the less thin.

I think I need those gone.  I see the commerical distribution box by
Rig-Runner uses thick spade insert fuses.  They may blow at 6 amps, but they
are none-the less-thick.

I think that is the change i need to make, use automotive type fuses in a 12
volt high current line.

72,

Fred
kt5x
K2 # 700