[Elecraft] [XV222] Ease of assembly?

[Jim Lowman]

I suppose this question pertains to any of the XV-series transverters.

I understand that there are no SMT parts to install; only through-hole 
components.

How long should the assembly/alignment/testing take?
I've been assembling kits since the Heathkit days.

This looks like an excellent way to get on 222 MHz, although I'm a bit 
on the fence.
I would need to buy the transverter interface module for the K3, so 
we're looking
at almost $500 without an antenna for this band.
As I understand it, there is little activity on SSB on 222 MHz except in 
contests,
which is surprising given the population of the greater LA/OC area.
At the SCCC meeting in September, our Division Director and Vice 
Director said
that it wasn't this way 10 years ago.

Any help with my original question will be greatly appreciated.
I know that you can't help with the scarcity of stations on the band in 
this area.  :-)

73 de Jim - AD6CW