[Heathkit] WTB: variable capacitor for HW-101

[Tom in N Texas]

Ed,

I raised the lid on my SB-101 and looked at it. I don't think you have to 
open the plates to get the bearing balls out. Leave 'em closed and remove 
the bearings. Then remove the jacks, open the plates and take out the rotor.

I think this is how the capacitors were assembled at the factory. How else?

There is a little play in the pre-loading spring at the rear end of the 
shaft. However it doesn't appear to be enough to get the bearing balls out. 
It would be nice to compress the end-play spring to minimize need to spread 
the frame. I would put the frame/shaft in a vise and gently squeeze to 
compress the end-play spring. Then use the jacks to spread the frame apart 
to remove the bearing balls. Reverse to re-assemble.


It would be nice if you could use an inside micrometer to measure how much 
you squeezed the frame to correct the spacing problem. Measure between the 
frame ends at the outer edge. The critical measurements are: Before 
starting, minimum distance (maximum squeeze applied) and final spacing. 
This would give the change in spacing and the spring-back. Helpful for 
anyone else who wants to use the method by saving time experimenting.

I think you would have to be very patient to make this work and get the 
measurements.

The jacks would be good to make the final adjustment after the capacitor is 
re-assembled. Again, measure to see how much you jacked it open and how 
much spring-back.

I would suggest bending/bowing the end-play spring a little more, but only 
a little, because you may have to open the frame too much to compensate.

Easiest solution is to buy Frank, WB4EHB's capacitor.

Please tell us how it comes out.

Good Luck and 73,

Tom Dulin KC5INU

------- YOU WROTE -------
Date: Wed, 24 Dec 2003 15:31:03 -0800
Subject: Re: [Heathkit] Heathkit] WTB: variable capacitor for HW-101

From: k6uuz@juno.com

Thanks, Tom. Where do the jacks go? They can't go inside the frame as the 
rotor plates cover the holes when open.

Ed Richards K6UUZ

------- TOM DULIN WROTE -------

I have never had occasion to try this, but it sounds good:

1. Make two little jacks out of threaded standoffs and screws.

2. Jack the two ends of the frame apart enough to drop out the ball bearings.

3. Bend the frame ends together, with a vise for good control. Use spacers 
in the vise to apply force at the correct points

4. Jack it apart again, just enough to get the bearings back in.

5. Install bearings, using heavy grease to keep them in place.

6. Remove the grease, if desired.

7. use the new jacks to adjust torque.

8. Tell us how it works.

73,
Tom Dulin KC5INU