[Hammarlund] Old Hammarlunds - modifications.

[Kenneth G. Gordon]

A kind soul on this list sent me zipped copies of three articles from CQ 
magazine detailing modifications to the Super Pro. These are the Geissler 
article from 1957, the Lee article from 1958, and the Reed article from 1961.

ALL of these are rather extensive, and NONE of them seem to me to be 
totally necessary.

Some time back, I bought two BC-779s from one of our list members, one of 
which is obviously the victim of the CQ magazine article entitled, "The 
Ultimate Conversion of the Super Pro" by Reed.

The complete audio system was removed, part of the chassis was hack-
sawed out, and a power-supply and a completely different audio system built 
in in place of the original audio system, miniature tubes were substituted for 
many of the octals, etc.

I have not yet examined the receiver closely enough to tell how far the 
original owner went with the modifications, but it looks very extensive. The 
job also appears to have been well done.

The OTHER BC-779 included in the package appears to be completely stock 
and untouched. It even has its original power supply, also untouched.

After I restore that one, it will be interesting to compare their operation.

Lastly, I have a third BC-779, which is in rather poor condition, which one of 
my nephews found in Butte, Montana and got for me from an estate. It 
includes a cabinet, the only one I have, although the cabinet MAY not be the 
correct one.

I have not yet decided what to do with that one: either I will attempt a limited 
restoration, or, if it is bad enough, use it for parts.

I'll keep the list informed, for those who might be interested, although it will 
be some time before I am going to be able to get to them.

Ken Gordon W7EKB