[Elecraft] KX3 encoder dying?

[George Pasek]

I opted to get a RSA number from Elecraft and ship it out to them.  I no 
longer have my workbench (or keen eyesight/steady soldering hand for that 
matter) so I really don't want taking a chance to do that type of work on 
something as expensive as the KX3.  I told them to replace all 4 of the 
small encorders and I should be good-to-go for many more years.

George
WD0AKZ

-----Original Message----- 
From: Bob McGraw K4TAX
Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2018 4:49 PM
To: George Pasek
Cc: elecraft at mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 encoder dying?

Encoders can be cleaned. I've done it in several radios, several brands.  It 
is usually necessary to open the radio, remove the encoder.  Then carefully 
open the encoder, clean the wiper contacts and the stationary contacts with 
contact cleaner.   These are simply a stepping switch. Only one moving part. 
Reassemble in the reverse process.

Bob, K4TAX


Sent from my iPhone

> On Sep 16, 2018, at 4:39 PM, George Pasek <pasek001 at umn.edu> wrote:
>
> I noticed today that when I tried to fine adjust the mic level with the 
> mic/keyer/pwr encoder that it may display the mic level but won't change 
> it or if it does it's very erratic.  The response is the same with the 
> keyer speed in CW mode and when attempting to adjust the power level. 
> Turning the knob fast usually does nothing, turning it slow may move it a 
> bit and wiggling the knob seems the best way to see results.   I never had 
> a problem with it till today and I have made no changes to it or it's 
> operation.  I have been running it on WSPR at 500mw with a 2 minute Tx and 
> 8 minute Rx for a few weeks now and always tweak the mic gain for the 
> blinking ALC 5th bar when I change bands.  I'm assuming it's the encoder 
> going bad and will have to be sent to the Elecraft Hospital for a part 
> replacement surgery but I thought I'd check here first in case I'm missing 
> something.
>
> tnx
> de George
> WD0AKZ
>
>
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