[K3] K3 Assembly Advice/Comments

[Ed K1EP]

Last Wednesday, I had the privilege of assembling the first production kit of the K3.  In return, I provided feedback to the crew at Elecraft about the manual, as well as the overall "experience".  The crew back in Aptos was very responsive to any problems that I encountered, which were very few.  Overall it was a great experience and Elecraft did a remarkable job on both the radio and the manual.

I can offer some advice on the assembly, for those doing the kit.  First, take the time to sort out all the parts. I think it took me about 45 minutes to carefully sort the hardware and check off all the pieces in the manual.  Having done a few Heathkits back in the late 60's and '70's, I followed the tried and true Heathkit method.  I saved a few egg cartons for all the hardware.  And there is a lot of hardware!  Pay close attention to the screws.  There are basically two types, pan head and flat head.  They come in two finishes, zinc and black.  The lengths are very similar, sometimes with only a 1/32" difference.  I used a caliper, you can use a scale (I have two engineering scales, I just couldn't find either one of them at the last minute!)   Take the time now to make some small labels with all the screw sizes listed in the manual so that you can place them in the egg carton when you start sorting the hardware.  You will probably need cartons from about four or five dozen eggs!   Most of the hardware comes in one package, but some of the hardware is segregated by the module it goes with.  I would try to keep that hardware separate to make it easier on you, but it is necessary.  Also, some of the assembly pieces might be packed together in a zip bag, so before you think you are missing something, carefully check all bags.  Also in Heathkit tradition, don't throw away any packing material until you finish the assembly.  You might have a small washer stuck in a bag and not know it!  

The assembly was straight forward and the pictures helped.  I know that there has been a prolonged discussion about printed vs. electronic manuals.  Since I was reviewing the manual before it was printed, I had to print out my own.  Although I recommend using a paper copy, so that you can check off the steps, having an electronic copy handy is good.  With the electronic copy, you can zoom in on a picture if you have a question about an assembly step.  

I know some have asked how long it took to assemble.  I had the low power version, along with the KXV3 and KAT3 assembled in less than seven hours.  However, that time is misleading, as I spent some time making notes and exchanging emails with Aptos.  Of course, your mileage may vary, but a mechanically inclined person who has prepared his or her work area, could probably do the assembly in four or five hours.  I wouldn't recommend rushing it, the extra couple of hours won't make a difference in the long run and may save you time later if you mess up a step.  The tool recommendations in the manual are sufficient for construction.  I think I did need a 5/16" spin tool at one point, but it wasn't critical or necessary.  I would recommend a magnetized set of precision screwdrivers.  The hardware is small and sometimes picking up a screw or washer, a magnetized tool made it a lot easier.

In the next few days, I will be testing out my K3, specifically with a goal in mind.  Next week, I will be traveling on a Dxpedition and operating the CQWW contest from J3A as part of a multi-multi.  The K3 will be there and I hope to also be on the air as J3/K1EP before the contest if time allows.  Since the contest is phone, I may spend more non-contest time on CW if time allows.  So, if you hear me on in the next week or in the contest, it probably will be the K3.  Remember though, J3A (and that call is only used during the contest) is a multi op and we will have five other radios on during the contest, so asking the op *during* the contest what radio he is running will not be a good thing to do.  I have already interfaced the radio to N1MM logger, thanks to John K3CT who wrote some of the code.  Coincidentally, I did run into K3CT and made a CW QSO with him yesterday in the PaQP.  I have used both a serial port and a USB to Serial adapter to control the radio, send CW and drive PTT.  I have also tried out DxBase, using the K2 settings.  

I am not sure if I will have the time over the next week to write much more or answer individual questions.  Aptos, I believe, will be shipping out radios next week, so more of you will be on the air shortly.   Friday and Saturday I did bring the K3 to the NEAR-fest hamfest in Deerfield, NH.  The buzz got around and many viewed the radio.  Several people told me that they had one on order or were contemplating buying one.  All were impressed with the appearance and operation of the radio.  A hamfest especially with someone running a spark transmitter is not the most RF friendly environment, but we did make some QSOs using my small screwdriver antenna on the car.

73
Ed K1EP
KX1 #666
K3 #66


Disclaimer:  The opinions above are all my own.  I have no connection, financial or otherwise with Elecraft.  I am just a satisfied customer!

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