[Elecraft] Crushproof KX1

[Bill Johnson]

Denny that is cool!  What's chances I could get you to build one for me?  I
would also like to see some photos!


72,

Bill 

K9YEQ
K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc.  



-----Original Message-----
From: elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of n9jxy at att.net


First, I made a round sleeve to protect the tuning knob and a U-shaped piece

for over the other knobs out of thin cardboard, taping them into place with 
that blue tape that painters use. Then I cut holes for the switches in a 
thicker piece and taped it over them. Next, I carefully, but not tightly, 
wrapped two layers of plastic wrap around the rig & taped it together on the

bottom. I applied a paper towel over that, taping it on the bottom, and 
snuggly wrapped the whole thing in aluminum foil with the seams at the 
bottom.



Next, following the kit's directions, I applied two layers of fiberglass to 
the top & down the sides, holding it tight, especially in the corners, with 
about a dozen rubber bands. I let it hang straight down from the antenna 
connector, though. After it dried, I carefully removed everything, pulling 
excess foil from inside the cover (I actually used etchant to remove all the

foil, but it's not necessary), and trimmed it so it would extend about ¾ way

down the sides. I trimmed it up around where the earphone plug would be 
though, so I could leave the phones plugged in, if desired. The trimming 
left some rough edges, so I mixed up another small amount of epoxy and 
sealed everything.



After the cover was completely dry, I cut out & applied pieces of stick-on 
felt to the inside corners & several other spots, which keeps the rig from 
being scratched & creates a snug fit. The end result - I'm able to carry my 
KX1 in about anything it will fit in, and the only abuse the controls get is

from me using them.



Denny Payton    N9JXY