[Elecraft] New Build K2/100

[Ron D'Eau Claire]

In my experience the K2 is actually easier to build than most Heathkits -
especially the older vacuum tube jobs.

Where most people have trouble is in putting the wrong part in the wrong
place. Putting in parts oriented wrong (IC's backwards, etc.) and in bad
solder joints (cold or missed solder joints). 

Be especially careful with the toroid leads to be sure they are stripped and
tinned up ABOVE where the lead comes out of the PC board so they are
actually soldered. You can fill the PC board hole with solder, trapping the
lead, but it the enamel isn't gone from that point it doesn't make contact.
They have been dubbed "PTTL" for "poorly tinned toroid leads" by kit builder
rescuer extraordinaire, Gary Surrency (support at elecraft.com). 

Take your time. Don't hurry. Make it a Zen exercise in deliberate thought,
deliberate motion, deliberate acts. Double check your work. 

When you are done, it'll be as much of a thrill as your first Heathkit - and
work a whole lot better! 

Ron AC7AC
 

-----Original Message-----
I just received my new K2/100 with all the bells and whistles.  I ordered 
all
the necessary tools to help put it together i.e.: solder station, etc.  I
haven't built a kit since the days of Heathkit and that was many years ago.
If anyone has suggestions, I would appreciate helpful comments.  Thanks and
73 de Alan, K6IPM