[Milsurplus] [BoatAnchors] VS-3 PE-104 vibrator help

[WA5CAB at cs.com]

John,

I don't have 5380 in my database but database says 5386 is 3H6694.2-3 used 
in BC-1335.  I don't know the exact difference but 550C & VS-3 are 3H6690.

My experience with clearing vibrator contacts with the 120 V lamp method is 
that it sometimes takes up to overnight to clear some of the contacts.  And 
that shunt types are harder to clear than series types if the shunt contact 
(usually the lowest pin number) is internally connected to the coil.  If it 
isn't, connect one lamp to the coil and the second to the two coil-side 
contacts.  When the second lamp lights, disconnect one, then the other contact 
to determine which one is working.  Then continue with the other contact.  
And finally, with the other two contacts.  If the shunt contact is internally 
connected, it may help to run a 1A 400PIV (or greater) in series with the 
coil lamp.

VB-5 probably cannot be cleared using this method because there is an 
internal resistor across the shunt contact.  At least I never had it work 
successfully.  VB-5 cans tend to break when you open one up.  So have another 
sacrificial vibrator ready to supply a replacement can.

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

In a message dated 05/03/2013 12:33:09 PM Central Daylight Time, 
jmccarty at alcatel-lucent.com writes: 
> Yes, but couldn't get it completely.
> 
> It's definitely an exercise in mental gymnastics. I attempted
> this some time back. Replaced some of them, but gave up at the 5 banger 
> bath tub
> cap in the front compartment. It does look like it was built
> from the inside out. It's a well shielded unit to keep the hash out
> of the RX I would guess.
> 
> Thanks Al for the info on the vibrator clean up. I have it on the work 
> bench
> right now with a 25 watt lamp in series with pins 3 and 6. I have another
> 25 watt lamp that I hook to the other pins one at a time until the lamp 
> comes
> near full brilliance. Pin 4 is being stubborn.
> 
> I actually have two PE-104's but only one vibrator unless a Mallory 5380 
> (or maybe
> 5386) is a good substitute.
> 
> 73
> 
> John n9hrt