[R-390] Re Re Somebody Stop Me!

[Barry]

On Fri 12/12/08 12:27 PM , "Tisha Hayes" tisha.hayes at gmail.com sent:
> I had a problem with the zero adjust mechanism on one of my receivers,
> it doesn't dis-engage the drive so I can zero out. I have since
> purchased a new zero adjust mechanism from Epay (like $8.00) and will
> install it the next time I drop the faceplate. After contemplation I
> may find that it is the clutch mechanism that the pressure plate
> drives.
> Good thing I have a spare RF deck and all of the gearing. I
> wouldn't mind replacing one gear but tearing the entire drive
> train apart is something that is not just an afternoon project.
> 
> I have seen that gear make it's appearance every few weeks on the
> ePay place. Usually it is in the $5 - $15 range. Maybe you can find
> someone who has a tremendous pile of blue-striper's who can pull
> one for you.
> If you can, gradually accumulate a complete set of spare modules.
> Then you can make mods/upgrades on the radio, one module at a time.
> This is also a tremendous benefit in troubleshooting.

My first R390A, a '54 all-Motorola unit, had similar problems with the zero-adjust clutch.  Someone had hacked a 
replacement clutch plate which I replaced but it still didn't work as well as I'd have liked.  I tore the clutch 
mechanism apart a few times, cleaning, deburring, etc., but it never released as easily as the one on my Teledyne 
did.  I think Roger has commented that this was rather common and a good solution was never found.  Some clutches 
released nicely and some didn't.

As for collecting replacement decks, that's a great idea, but I'm trying my best not to have so much "stuff" 
around anymore.  I just don't have room for it.  It kind of scares me to get this R390A as I know I'd work on it 
and then it would need realigning and I wouldn't have the gear for that and I'll start buying more stuff.  It 
doesn't end.

I have a nice frame that I've restored complete with a p/s for which I was originally going to obtain the various 
modules and build another one but have decided I don't want to undertake that.  I don't want this stuff laying 
around when the undertaker undertakes me.

Barry - N4BUQ