[Elecraft] K3 Quickest way to access loose AUX RF nut *TIME CRITICAL*

[Erik Basilier]

Ron,
Thanks for the quick reply. I was already having daymares about tuner ground
return path, and that is just what you said!
Anyway, it didn't take long to remove the top. I found that the
tuner-to-standoff screw was somewhat tight already, but I am sure I improved
the situation when I applied one screwdriver to that screw from the inside,
while simultaneously applying another screwdriver from the outside to the
long screw. I think I would have been ok, but I feel so much better now!
73,
Erik

-----Original Message-----
From: Ron D'Eau Claire [mailto:ron at cobi.biz] 
Sent: Friday, June 22, 2012 4:03 PM
To: 'Erik Basilier'; Elecraft at mailman.qth.net
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 Quickest way to access loose AUX RF nut *TIME
CRITICAL*

That long screw is part of the ground return for the KAT3. If the hardware
is loose people have reported the SWR jumping around as the ground path
resistance varies according to how well the screw threads make contact with
the standoff.

A quick fix might be to remove the top cover. That standoff is right up
against the rear panel lip but if you can get pliers or a wrench on it
simply tighten it against the 2D fastener. Optionally you might push on the
screw that goes through the circuit board to push the standoff up hard
against the 2D and then replace the long screw to hold everything. 

As long as it's making solid electrical contact you should have no problems.


Always a last minute panic, Hi!

73, Ron AC7AC

-----Original Message-----

Ron, I know what you are referring to. During my aborted attempt I first
removed the long screw, but gave up when I realized that I was up against
the voltage regulators. I put the screws back and packed the radio in a
case. Question: does this mean that I have some loose hardware now relating
to the standoff at the KAT3? The long screw seemed to tighten ok. In other
words, should I open the radio and follow your instructions, or can I be
reasonable confident and be on my way to FD? This is time critical.
Thanks,
Erik