[Elecraft] KDSP2 Capacitor Installation

[Tom Hammond]

Chuck:

>I need some recommendations.  The KDSP2 instructions state to install C5,
>C8,C3, and C4 with the capacitor flush to tje PCB with the exposed leads not
>more than 1/32" (1mm) above the PCB.  Could someone please tell me how they
>accomplished this task.  The best I can mamage without cracking the ceramic
>around the leads is 2/32" Pictures would be great.

Fresh out of pics, but here's how I've done it for a long time (read 
"decades").

Use the TIP of a pair of small-tipped needle-nosed pliers and CRUSH just 
the over-dip epoxy which extends down onto the wire leads. Rotate the 
capacitor and crush again.

Carefully use your fingers to pick off the crushed over-dip.

Use the tip end of the pliers to individually straighten each of the 
pre-bent bends in the component lead and then re-bend ONLY if needed.

When you are straightening the bends hold the lead by its END, rather than 
by the component body, so the body does not absorb any of the stress 
imparted by the pliers. It's pretty difficult to not hold the component 
body if you are RE-bending the leads, but as I noted previously, re-bend 
only if absolutely necessary.

73,

Tom Hammond   N0SS