[Elecraft] K2 Deaf 20/30 metre band - the cure in my case

[Malcolm Taylor]

I'm happy to say that my newly finished serial number 4511 is working
fantastic. The CW only version. Now onto the SSB option. The parts and
packing were just excellent. I hit just two problems that I thought I
should share as this reflector was a really superb searchable help to me.
Thanks to everyone for that.

Problem 1) I decided to do the optional rx alignment PRIOR to doing the
transmit. My work bench is one end of the room with a good regulated power
supply but for quickness I thought I'd use a wall wart (12V) to test the
rx on an antenna the other end of the room. All bands worked great EXCEPT
80m. That band was terribly distorted. To cut a long story short the wall
wart was providing a reading on 15.1 on the K2. I changed the supply and
all was okay!

Problem 2) At the last testing stage, all bands were great EXCEPT 20/30
metres. I rechecked solder joints, toroids, you name it and then got
serious with a scope. To my surprise, C20 (RF board, 20/30 Pass Band) was
the culprit. A new 47pF cap was reading .18pF on my Almost All Digital LCR
meter. On replacing with my own stock 20/30 bands came alive. All bands
now excellent.

I suppose I could have damaged the cap with heat or pulling but I think it
may also have been a component fault. No blame attached to anyone but hope
this helps others. Happy building. What a great radio!

73, Malcolm, K1VZ