[Elecraft] Long Term Reliability: K2 5 year anniversary

[JohnK1JD]

Both K2's here are approaching the 5 year mark. #139 was on the air July 4th weekend; #583 in October. One consideration prior to buying them had to do with unproven reliability: Would the radio(s) last?  

They are not only alive and well but functioning perfectly. The only problem I've had is with the RIT controls in both radios. Fortunately, replacing the pot is a relatively easy job.

#139 has spent time on the road running mobile CW, working portable operations from lighthouses, in many states while on business or vacation, and in Europe (DL/OE/I). It has seen some rough handling. The internal battery and ATU make it a natural for on-the-go operation. When at home, it is connected to the XV50 awaiting (mostly in vain these days) a 6m band opening.

#583 (w/KPA100) is the main rig in the shack. It has the most hours of operation and has held up to heavy use. 

My log shows over 10K CW QSO's the past 5 years. The 'big rigs' were sold off 3-4 years ago, but they account for several hundred QSO's at most. Once a K2 is operational, big rigs tend to start gathering dust. 

Wanted to discuss K2 reliability statistics w/ Elecraft at Dayton but couldn't get within 5 feet of Wayne or Eric due to the clamoring crowd :-)   It would be interesting to hear from others at or near the 5 year milestone.

73,  John  K1JD