K3 build sequence

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K3 build sequence

Dwayne Rohmer
Later this year, I plan to order a K3/10 Kit, KAT3 internal Antenna Tuner,
and optional filters for CW, then add the 100 Watt Upgrade, General Coverage
RX Bandpass Module, and other options as money allows. If possible, I'd like
to avoid major disassembly for installation of future options by installing
them in the initial build. Lesson learned with an old Thunderbird that
needed a heater core replaced; half the insides had to come out just to get
to the thing; don't want to do that again.

 

Which options, if any, require major disassembly of the K3? Eventually I'll
need SSB and 2 meter capability.

 

Any recommendations for a first time builder would be appreciated.

 

73, Dwayne, KE5EFY

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Re: K3 build sequence

Jeff Cochrane - VK4XA
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Re: K3 build sequence

Joe Planisky
In reply to this post by Dwayne Rohmer
Hi Dwayne,

About the only option that gets in the way of others in the K3 is the KRX3 (the 2nd receiver), and you didn't explicitly mention that on your list.  The 2nd RX must be removed to install the general coverage bandpass module in the main RX and to install additional filters in the main rig.  But that said, removing the 2nd RX is about a 10 minute job, so even worst case it's not a big deal.

Without the 2nd RX, I think you'll be astonished at how empty the K3 is inside. Adding options after the initial build really isn't much of a chore.  It's closer to replacing the gas cap than replacing the heater core on that old T-Bird.

73
--
Joe KB8AP


On Jan 25, 2011, at 4:29 PM, Dwayne Rohmer wrote:

> Later this year, I plan to order a K3/10 Kit, KAT3 internal Antenna Tuner,
> and optional filters for CW, then add the 100 Watt Upgrade, General Coverage
> RX Bandpass Module, and other options as money allows. If possible, I'd like
> to avoid major disassembly for installation of future options by installing
> them in the initial build. Lesson learned with an old Thunderbird that
> needed a heater core replaced; half the insides had to come out just to get
> to the thing; don't want to do that again.
>
> Which options, if any, require major disassembly of the K3? Eventually I'll
> need SSB and 2 meter capability.
>
> Any recommendations for a first time builder would be appreciated.
>
> 73, Dwayne, KE5EFY

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Re: K3 build sequence

Don Wilhelm-4
In reply to this post by Dwayne Rohmer
  Dwayne,

Since you did not mention the SubRX, you can add those options in any order.
The problem with the SubRX is that it sits on top of the main receiver,
and must be removed to add options (such as filters and RX Bandpass) to
the main.

If you later choose the SubRX, make that one of the later additions and
your task will be an easy one.

Even the removal of the subRX is not a great ordeal, but it is a "bother".

SSB and all other modes come with the basic K3, there are no options
involved for those modes.

73,
Don W3FPR



On 1/25/2011 7:29 PM, Dwayne Rohmer wrote:

> Later this year, I plan to order a K3/10 Kit, KAT3 internal Antenna Tuner,
> and optional filters for CW, then add the 100 Watt Upgrade, General Coverage
> RX Bandpass Module, and other options as money allows. If possible, I'd like
> to avoid major disassembly for installation of future options by installing
> them in the initial build. Lesson learned with an old Thunderbird that
> needed a heater core replaced; half the insides had to come out just to get
> to the thing; don't want to do that again.
>
>
>
> Which options, if any, require major disassembly of the K3? Eventually I'll
> need SSB and 2 meter capability.
>
>
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Re: K3 build sequence

Nr4c
In reply to this post by Dwayne Rohmer
I asked this same question before I purchased my K3/10 (now well tricked out
BTW) and from my experience, and the comments I rec'd, it just doesn't
matter.  If you think you want the DVR, you might consider that with the
initial build, as it requires removal of the front panel.  But on the advice
of others, I added it later, and the front panel was a snap to remove and
replace.  I put mine together since August, at about a module every other
week on average.  I can remove the top in about 3 minutes, blind folded.

I had a lot of fun doing it this way and I got to enjoy each addition a
little more since I only had one thing new to learn.  And, I got to know the
radio little by little instead of being overwhelmed by getting fully
assembled at one time.

You're gonna like the way it works.....

...bill    nr4c

-----Original Message-----
From: Dwayne Rohmer [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Tuesday, January 25, 2011 7:30 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: [Elecraft] K3 build sequence

Later this year, I plan to order a K3/10 Kit, KAT3 internal Antenna Tuner,
and optional filters for CW, then add the 100 Watt Upgrade, General Coverage
RX Bandpass Module, and other options as money allows. If possible, I'd like
to avoid major disassembly for installation of future options by installing
them in the initial build. Lesson learned with an old Thunderbird that
needed a heater core replaced; half the insides had to come out just to get
to the thing; don't want to do that again.

 

Which options, if any, require major disassembly of the K3? Eventually I'll
need SSB and 2 meter capability.

 

Any recommendations for a first time builder would be appreciated.

 

73, Dwayne, KE5EFY

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Re: K3 build sequence

Dwayne Rohmer
In reply to this post by Dwayne Rohmer
Gary,

 

Thank you for the reply. I've downloaded the assembly manual and will look
it over.

 

So far I've received 23 responses to my initial message. Lots of good
information. The reflector makes it easy go get help when needed.

 

The initial order will be for a K3 and KAT3, then add the KPA3 and optional
filters later on. I've decided not to install the General Coverage BPF
Module or the 2 meter option and use a 2 meter/440 rig that I already have.

 

73, Dwayne, KE5EFY

 

 

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Re: K3 build sequence

Dwayne Rohmer
Thanks Gary,

 

Sounds like several good reasons to add the KXV3A to the initial build. I'll
add it to the list.

 

73, Dwayne, KE5EFY

 

From: Gary Hvizdak [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Thursday, January 27, 2011 2:27 PM
To: 'Dwayne Rohmer'
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 build sequence

 

Hi Dave,

 

    I didn't mention that the KPA100 ought to be very simple to add after
the rig is built.  I say "ought to be" because even if you buy it at the
same time as the K3, you still don't install the module itself until after
the base K3 has been calibrated.  The only differences in the assembly
procedure are when you install the shield, and whether the top cover
stiffener is attached to the top cover or to the enclosure.

 

    I also didn't mention that the KXV3A would also require significant
disassembly to add later, and that besides supporting the internal 2-meter
transverter, the it provides several other useful capabilities:

.     It IF output connector is required should you ever want to get
Elecraft's P3 panadaptor.

.     The RX antenna jack is perfect for connecting signal and noise
generators (such Elecraft's mini-modules).

.     The transverter output connector makes it possible to specify low TX
power levels down to 0.1 mW with 0.1 mW resolution.

.     You would want it if you intend to get Elecraft's PR6, external six
meter pre-amp.

 

    If you ever change your mind, the General Coverage BPF module would be a
snap to add later.  Unless you've installed the sub-RX.

 

73,
Gary  KI4GGX

K3 #2724

 

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