[Elecraft] KX1 Q6 problem

[Colin WHITMORE]

'Crafters,

I having a bit of a problem.  I've just recently completed a build of a KX1 
and everything has gone together smoothly, as usual.  The problem is with 
the power transitor, Q6.  If I tighten the flathead screw, Q6 must be 
shorting against something, as the display goes blank and the unit no longer 
work. (if you listen closely you can even hear the crackle of the short 
begining)  If I back out the screw the KX1 comes back alive!

Before anyone responds please note, EVERYTHING IS THERE AND IN PROPER 
PLACEMENT!  I only say this to be clear that the spacers, thermal pad, 
plastic washer, etc. are all present and accounted for, and that all are in 
proper position.

>From the PC board going up:

Screw with split washer on each side of PCB - No obvious issues here.

Short hex stand-off - Again, no obvious issues here.

Plastic shouldered washer - It's properly seated, that is the shoulder is 
towards Q6.  Also it sits centered within the hole of the Q6 case.

Power transistor (Q6) - Is parallel and square to the PCB.  No funny cants, 
twists, or other unusual orientations noted.  The leads are properly curved 
and do not contact anything within the case or on the PCB.

Thermal pad - Opening in pad is perfectly centered within the opening on the 
top cover.  The pad sits parallel to the nearest edge.  The orientation is 
exactly underneath the power transistor.  In fact there is a slight amount 
(~1/16-1/8") of thermal pad visable on all 4 sides when the PCB is fully 
installed in the top cover.

Final flathead screw - Also no obvious issues here (however, see below).  
When the screw is not present, the view of the whole assembly (pad, Q6 and 
hex stand-off) is centered exactly within the screw opening.

My thought is that the conical shape of the flathead screw may be coming 
into contact with the opening in the case of the transistor and grounding 
Q6.  Any thoughts?

Cheers,
Colin - AC0S