[Johnson] Need Info on Johnson Viking Ranger 12V PTT Circuit and other improvements

[jbrannig at optonline.net]

More.......
While the Ranger was apart I replaced almost all the capacitors and any resistor that was out of spec, particularly the metering resistors.
After it was back together I noticed a problem with the VFO and had to take it apart again (grrr)...
The culprits were the silver mica capacitors in the VFO circuit.
Parts are available from Mouser and other sources.
 
Pay particular attention to AD5X's front panel removal instructions.  There is a universal between the vernier and the VFO shaft and it is very fragile.
 
The construction manual is available on BAMA and is very handy.  
 
Check carefully for unsoldered or cold soldered connections and "mods",  I ran across more than a few.
 
The Ranger is a simple AM/CW transmitter, but the switching and cabling make it a challenge to work on.  Trace all the wires with a VOM and keep good notes.
 
Good luck,
Jim




> Hello to the list,
> 
> I recently purchased an original unmodified Ranger 1, a later 
> version with the bias supply and will soon be restoring it.
> 
> I was wondering if anyone on the list might happen to have a 
> soft copy of the PTT mod which used a 12V relay. I saw mention 
> of this PTT arrangement in the archives but couldnt locate a 
> link for it.
> 
> Also since I am not entirely familiar with this rig yet are 
> there any simple improvements that could be made to it without 
> any radical circuit changes? I have seen the turbo ranger mod 
> and really dont want to go there with it. I'd prefer to keep it 
> closer to stock.
> 
> I am aware of the 18k resistor which need to be changed to a 
> higher wattage which i will do. I will also replace the 
> electrolytics which look pretty scary and the paper caps.
> 
> Thanks in advance for any info,
> 73,
> Joe