[Elecraft] K3S oscillation issue

[k1dj at aol.com]

My recent model K3S feeds a SteppIR 3-element beam with the 30/40 meter trombone-shaped driven element on a (short) 40-foot tower.  Thanks to the SteppIR's tuneability, the SWR is always at or close to 1:1.  I operate primarily CW, primarily using the internal keyer.

I have noticed that on 20 meters, primarily, but not only, when I am sending a contest-type message from the K3S's internal memories, the rig occasionally seems to go into some kind of self-oscillation loop.  Because it seems to happen more often when my beam is pointed in particular directions, I think it's most likely an as-yet unsolved RFI/insufficient or improper grounding problem in my shack.

But I would appreciate hearing whether you have experienced, and hopefully solved, similar problems with the K3 or K3S?

Please let me know, and thanks!

Rich, K1DJ