[Elecraft] New K2 Build w/ Options

[Don Wilhelm]

James,

The amount of "rework" is minimal.  There are ways to avoid doing as 
much component removal and changes, but I would not recommend that you 
do it on your initial kit build.

If you were to build a 2nd K2 (after installing the various options 
once), then I can see you reviewing the installation steps for the 
options and doing those things as you build the K2, but for the first 
time, build the base K2, do the alignment and test, and then add the 
options.

To help set your mind at ease, the components that you will need to 
remove for each of the options is as follows:
KPA100 -- none
K160RX -- none
KXV60  -- remove two capacitors
KAF2  -- remove two wires on the back of the control board
KNB2  -- change 3 resistors
KSB2  -- remove one capacitor

So IMHO, the "rework" is minimal.  Most of the work for installation of 
the options is adds to the RF Board.  For older K2s (below SN 3000), 
there is a bit more rework, but not for yours.

The hardest part of removing components from the boards is removing the 
solder from the holes.  You can even waste the component to be removed 
and pull the leads out one at a time.  Clean up the solder pads with 
solder wick, and if solder remains in the holes, heat the pad and push 
the solder out with a wooden toothpick so you can insert the new 
component or header.

73,
Don W3FPR




On 8/15/2019 1:00 PM, W0CD wrote:
> Good afternoon.
> 
> I just received a new K2 kit from Elecraft (#7899). It includes all
> available options for the K2/100 (amp, audio filter, 60m, SSB, etc.).
> 
> I understand adding these components after the K2 is built will require a
> bit of rework to be completed. Is this true if you are building the entire
> kit, with accessories, from scratch? I noticed the rework boards are no
> longer available and I want to be sure I eliminate as much rework as
> possible (if possible).
>