[Elecraft] KPOD Push Button Switch Replacement

[wb6rse1 at mac.com]

KPOD Push Button Switch Replacement

I posted asking for details from anyone having replaced KPOD switches. No detailed replies.

Here's how to:

The push button switch part number as supplied by Elecraft Support ("If you're handy with a soldering iron."):

TL3300CF160Q  available from Digikey.

I needed just one but bought 10 because they are inexpensive. Very reasonable USPS USA shipping up to 16 oz.

Procedure:

1) Disconnect all cables.

2) Lift up and off the rubber outer sleeve on the tuning knob.

3) Use the Allen Wrench supplied with the KPOD to remove the knob.

4) Remove the two felt washers on the shaft. Note that the thinner lower one is pressed flat against the panel surrounding the encoder nut.

5) Use a wrench to carefully loosen and remove the encoder nut and lock washer.

6) Remove 4 small Phillips head screws holding the front panel, 2 on either side at the top of the side panels.

7) Carefully pry up the panel slowly alternately from the back to front exposing the PC board. (This is a good opportunity to wipe the front panel surface clean with a microfiber cloth.)

8) Using a small tip soldering iron carefully desolder (or cut) the leads of the switch or switches needing replacement.

9) Carefully clean the PCB pads as needed. Place the new switch within the PC board outline. Solder one lead and temporarily replace the panel to check alignment.

10) Solder the remaining leads.

You may want to connect the KPOD to your radio to check that the switch is working as expected.

11) Reassemble in reverse order.

(NOTE: The encoder PCB may have become disconnected from its socket on the main PCB. It will seem to float. If so, carefully grab the encoder by its shaft pulling up and re-engage its small PCB into its socket by pushing down towards the lower section of the main PCB.  Hold the shaft to keep the encoder connection engaged when replacing the front panel. You should see a full extension of the encoder's threaded shaft up through the front panel when reassembling its lock washer and nut. Check that the encoder is working before replacing the knob and the panel side screws.)

One switch took about 10 minutes to replace. (Writing this post took longer.)

Good luck.

73 - Steve WB6RSE