[Elecraft] Autotuners and transmitter longevity

[John Harper]

In another thread, W.D. (Doc) Lindsey wrote:

>Well I need IMMEDIATE help with my ATS-2.....Suddenly I could not get it to 
>go into Tune mode, which is causing
>me some trouble setting up my automatic tuners.


With the popularity of external autotuners (T1, LDG, etc) among many of us, 
I'm wondering what thoughts folks may have regarding rigs such as the AT 
Sprints and KX-1 where the output power cannot be reduced prior to tuning. 
Normally, when I tune for minimum SWR I lower the rig's output to protect 
the finals if I expect SWR to be initially high. This isn't possible with 
the AT Sprint and is inconvenient with the KX-1 (I know the KX-1 has a 
built-in tuner and that power is reduced prior to tuning - I'm talking about 
those rigs when used with external tuners)

Do you guys avoid using autotuners on rigs whose output can't be reduced or 
do you use them anyway and just "take your chances"?

John Harper AE5X
Portable QRP: http://www.ae5x.com