[Elecraft] K3S RIT Woes

[Michael Tope]

Thank you for this info, Geert.

I also heard back from Doug at Elecraft customer support. He suggested 
that the problem might also be a failing solder joint where the encoder 
attaches to the PCB (or one of the associated SMT components in that 
area) due to the mechanical load transferred from the knob to the PCB.

73, Mike W4EF...............

On 10/22/2025 1:38 AM, Geert Jan de Groot via Elecraft wrote:
> Hi,
>
> Keith of Elecraft fame has already answered this on another mailing 
> list:  https://groups.io/g/Elecraft-K3/message/43244
>
>
> The K3 RIT encoder is;
> Z7    Encoder, 96 Counts, Contacting       Elecraft # E640021 Bourns 
> PEC16-4015F-N0024        **AntiRotation pin must be CUT
> https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/bourns-inc/PEC16-4015F-N0024/3780221 
>
>
> The VFO A and B encoders are different (but the same as eachother), 
> and same as the K4, so we have lots of them.
> Assembly with circuit board is E850239;
> Encoder alone;   Encoder, 400 Counts, Optical    E640020 Bourns 
> ENS1D-B28-L00100L
>
> 4 Pushbutton  encoders are E640018;
> Z1-4    Encoder, 80 Counts,w/PB Switch      E640018    Bourns 
> PEC11-4015F-S0018
>
> Keith WE6R K3/K4 Tech
>
>
>
> My personal experience is that replacement of the RIT encoder isn't hard.
> You need to take the K3 apart - check the assembly manual. Note the 
> screw on the left bottom of the main PCB you need to losen when 
> removing the front panel.
>
> If your K3 has RIT issues, chances are that the four bandpass filter 
> encoders are on their way out and if it were me I would at least order 
> them, if not replace them, at the same time. I'd order at digikey and 
> "just do"
>
> 73, Geert Jan
>
>
>
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