[R-390] How much should it cost???

[Dan Merz]

Hi,  I'd vote for the two box approach based on my own experience - the extra
weight of the heavy transformers did cause some damage on one I received via
FedEx,  maybe because the cushioning between R-390a and outer box was not quite
sturdy  enough.  But without the extra weight inside the unit,  I don't think
there would have been a problem.  Fortunately I was able to straighten the side
panel that was bent at one of the rear edges with no other ill effects.  Another
experienced shipper of these sets mentioned his practice of removing the power
supply/audio unit for shipping - good advice albeit it after I had the problem,
Dan.

Barry Hauser wrote:

> Harry wrote:
> > I am surprised no one has mentioned this yet.. Both UPS and USPS have a
> > significant change in rates around 70 pounds.
>
> Yes -- the rates jump at 70 pounds, but, there's a catch.  Most often, with
> double boxing and an outer carton that's large enough, the receivers will go
> for "dimensional weight" -- when the girth exceeds 108 inches.  There are
> other dimensional criteria as well.  If I'm not mistaken, the "108" for UPS
> triggers a rate equal to the  70 lb. rate regardless of actual weight --
> however will still be a good deal cheaper than 75 or 80 lbs.
>
> (Girth = 2 X each of the smaller dimensions plus 1 X the length.  So, a 26"
> X 24" X 18" box would be (24 + 18) X 2 = 84" plus the 26" L. = 110" --
> bingo.  That's one thing that stymies sending shipping sets around, unless
> they're designed as as telescoping cartons.  However, those are not safe for
> shipping unless there are some rigid verticals to prevent telescoping while
> the goods are in the box.)
>
> R-390x's are fairly sturdy when it comes to the P/S and transformer
> mountings, as well as the H-mainframe construction -- at least make sure ALL
> green screws and transformer screws are tight.  (Also a good time to check
> front panel screws, tighten the handles and chassis screws, etc.
>
> There is a safety advantage to two lighter instead of one heavier
> arton.  -- The easier it is to lift the big one, the less chance of
> "droppage" and may be less chance of damage when it is dropped or tumbled
> the "usual" amount.  It's usually the weight of the radio that is it's "own
> worst enemy".
>
> There are other pieces of gear that are much more prone to transformer
> ballistics, like those with conventional steel or aluminum chassis
> construction.  Not uncommon to find small screws used to fasten these things
> down.  However, those units are usually not modular and there would be a lot
> of leads to unsolder.  With that type, make sure the screws/nuts/bolts are
> all there and tight -- and brace between the top of the transformer and the
> cabinet or carton, so it can't rip out when it's dropped upside down.
>
> Of course, if you want to lighten the load a bit more, you can use helium
> bubblewrap which I'm now developing.  True, doesn't have the lift of
> hydrogen, but my experiment with hydrogen bubblewrap didn't work out too
> well yesterday -- maybe not a good idea to test on the 65th anniversary of
> .... ;-)
>
> Barry
>
>   For the "A" at least,
> > separating the power supply and audio decks, and then shipping them
> > separately should get all boxes under the weight threshold.  It also
> reduces
> > the chances of shipping damage (when dropped, the radio stops, but the
> heavy
> > transformers will try to keep going..).
> >
> > See you at Dayton!  (list your spaces if you have one!!)
> >
> > 73
> > Harry  KG5LO
> > Saline MI
> >
> >
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