[Elecraft] K3 transmitter power woes

[Keith Trinity WE6R]

Hi Chet;
You should be able to run the TX gain cals with no errors, otherwise 
something is wrong.
NOTE; After a successful Gain-Cal, then never, ever, TX at exactly 5 or 
50watts (or 1.0MW) as that can cause an inadvertent TX gain cal and mess 
it up.
To me, it would appear the LPA is weak.
Check your Watt-Meter Cal, or make sure your WM LP is around 65-100 and 
WM HP is 25-55 typically.
Then if you can get the gain cals to run, send me the numbers, IE click 
Display TX Gain Summary and cut and paste.

*However, I just noticed you mentioned the MW gain cal has issues, so it 
could be before the LPA/KPA and would be the Band Pass Filter adjustable 
caps.

Also from my notes;
Slow ramp up of power, mainly on the upper bands,  can be D1 E560040 
burnt (or bad solder joint) and/or bad Q6 E580026 on LPA. (power ramps 
up starting very low). If Q6 shorts, it can take out Q3 E580030. 
**REPLACE D1 *and* Q6 if the solder joint is bad!!!
Fix; Replace ALL THREE at same time! Q3, Q6 & D1 on LPA.

Note; This can also just be normal operation of Firm Ware overshoot 
protection. (power goes quickly to near (~80%) desired power, then ramps 
up the final percentage in seconds. This happens if you; 1. Change 
desired power, 2. Change bands, 3. Power cycle radio.
So, set desired power, then long press XMIT to do a TUNE (with TUN PWR 
at nor), or Key up on FM (if you have a FM filter). The go back to your 
desired mode and it should reach good power quickly.
Keith WE6R Elecraft K3/K4 Tech.