[Milsurplus] TCS Tx and RX identity

[WA5CAB at cs.com]

Dave,

I can tell you right off that both units are TCS-5 or earlier, from the 
posts at the four corners of the panels.  TCS-6 was the first to have the 
handles on the front panel.  Beyond that, I have a TCS and a TCS-4 manual.  When 
I get time, I will locate them and see whether photos show engraved front 
panels on either.  I also have a 56Q (transmitter only) manual which I will 
check.  I have some TCS-5 units over in Storage and I am pretty sure they have 
the raised (etched) lettering.  I know someone who has or had a TCS-4 pair. 
 But have never heard of anything earlier I don't think.  According to 
SHIPS 242A TCS-1, -2 & -3 were made for Lend Lease, all in 1941.  But it does 
not say to whom.  I suppose it is possible some went to RN (and ended up in 
the Pacific) or to RAN.

Unfortunately in this case, very few changes were made to the TCS from 
beginning to end of production.  Aside from the engraved panel, which I've never 
seen an example of I don't think, none that I know of are listed before 
TCS-6.  And both of yours are definitely earlier than that.

In a message dated 11/22/2010 6:05:45 PM Central Standard Time, 
davprin1 at optusnet.com.au writes: 
> G'day list,
> 
> I have some questions regarding a TCS transmitter and 
> receiver pair that I have. Actually, they are not a pair as 
> the Tx has engraved lettering while the Rx has etched? (not 
> sure if thats what it's called) lettering. Unfortunately, 
> all ID plate are missing, even off the cabinets, and the 
> panels have been painted over with a green/grey wrinkle. finish.
> 
> Links to photos are at
> http://members.optusnet.com.au/davprin1/images/
> 
> My questions:-
> 
> Can anyone identify the versions? The tx does not have that 
> funny shaped plate behind the Antenna Loading control. The 
> lettering for this is engraved directly into the panel 
> whereas in pix I've seen, it is engraved into the plate. The 
> locks have been removed from the appropriate controls, 
> connecter socket has been removed and a couple of small 
> holes drilled near the bottom of the panel. Overall though, 
> if I can get that paint removed, I should be able to use 
> that panel.
> 
> The receiver is a different story:- With the hole cut for 
> the meter and a section cut out to accommodate the rear of 
> an attached speaker (that would be covered up by the tuning 
> chart, however) I think the only way to go would be a 
> replacement front panel, perhaps one with engraved lettering 
> to match more closely with the transmitter.
> 
> Cheers
> Dave

Robert & Susan Downs - Houston
wa5cab dot com (Web Store)
MVPA 9480