[Elecraft] KPA100 PA Q Tightening--Tnx Explanation

[n7on at juno.com]

"Minor scratches are OK. This material melts and fills the gaps between 
the PA transistors and the heatsink as the devices heat up the first 
couple of times. (That is one of the reasons we require tightening of 
the transistor mounting screws after a initial short period of use.)
 
73, Eric   WA6HHQ
Elecraft"


Thanks for the explanation!  Since completing my KPA100 I've wondered why
the tightening-after-first-extended-use is necessary but doesn't need to
be repeated.  I tightened mine after a few hours of contesting and no
subsequent tightening has been necessary.

It makes sense now--the screws need tightening because a new gap is
created between the transistor cases and the heat sink after the heat
sink material melts.

Just one more piece of information about what goes on under the hood of
my K2/100.

73,

John, N7ON K2/100 S/N 5023

P.S.  500+ K2's sold since receiving mine last July?  FB!