[Elecraft] K3 - reliability

[WILLIS COOKE]

I am one who had returned a K3 to the factory.  I am convinced that it was a builder error which has not been identified by either me or the factory, but everything has worked fine to the last five years.  As good as Elecraft is, they are still subject to the usual component failure and OEM difficulties.  They expose themselves to builder errors and even ask for problems from owner repairs.  Yes, even Elecraft sometimes makes mistakes like the other manufacturers.  But, they will always send you a spare part or board if you order it, they may pay the return shipping and they will be there for you to give you the level of repair you require. And they will bend over backwards to treat you fairly.  You can ask more from a manufacturer, but I know of no others who will go as far as Elecraft.  Be glad you have a TS-480.  It is the only other rig I would consider after owning a K3.  (I own one that I bought after the K3 and before the KX3 was
 rumored.) 
 
Willis 'Cookie' Cooke 
K5EWJ & Trustee N5BPS, USS Cavalla, USS Stewart


________________________________
 From: Bill <bill at w2blc.net>
To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Saturday, August 4, 2012 9:08 AM
Subject: [Elecraft] K3 - reliability
 
I have been reading the posts about the KX3 and it brings up a question 
about K3 reliability.

Prior to my purchase of a K3 last winter, I did all the usual research 
on reflectors and boards. I was looking for real-life user information 
and experiences. What impressed me most was the lack of reported serious 
failures - those requiring a visit to the factory. I do know that some 
K3s have required factory level warranty repairs. The question is: how 
many or what percentage. And, is there a particular problem(s) that 
appears often.

Most rigs, after being on the market for a period of time, have known 
short comings. Not so for the K3. I have read nothing that indicates a 
chronic problem(s).

Based on the above, I purchased and built a K3. Five months after 
completion - the rig is at the factory awaiting warranty repair (dark 
display with MCU LD shown). Needless to say, I do question the K3's 
reliability factor and would be very interested in the particulars of 
other failures requiring a return to the factory for warranty repairs.

I am still on the air, using my trusty Kenwood 480 while on vacation - 
so no total washouts.

Kindly keep the flames to a minimum - this is a serious question that I 
should have pushed prior to purchase.

Thanks,

Bill W2BLC

-- 
IN GOD I TRUST (but, NOT a single politician)
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