KBPF3 mod kit

[Edward A. Dauer]

I just ordered the KIO3B and a KBPF3 mod kit for the K3.  The process of installing the KBPF3 mod provides access to the small battery under the plastic protective cover.  The K3 is about five years old.  Would it be worth replacing that battery while I am in there, or do they last essentially forever?  The mod will also require removing the Sub Rx.  As I remember, that was the most frustrating part of the original build.  I would appreciate any tips on how to remove and – especially – replace the Sub Rx with a minimum of cussing.  Would removing the right side panel help, or would that just complicate things?

Tnx,

Ted, KN1CBR

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[Grant Youngman-2]

I don’t think removing the side panel is necessary for these mods.  But it’s been a while.  The sub-receiver is actually pretty easy to pull and reinstall. Just follow the instructions that come with the mod kits.  I’ve found the best way to “sight” the sub receiver re-install is to first target the connector at the rear.  It’s easier to see and line up.  The front connector will fall into place.  Biggest issue (exacerbated if you have the 2M xvrtr) is keeping the TMP cables out of the way while dropping it in.

Be aware that the KBPF3 mod requires installing 3 0603-sized surface mount caps.  These things are literally flea sized and NOT easy to deal with if you aren’t familiar with handling them.  Elecraft supplies an extra in case you lose one.  Best to use a hot air rework tool IMHO, but can be done with a fine tipped (ESD-safe) iron.  Either way, I’d suggest liquid flux (if you don’t have any) to make it as clean and easy as possible.

Can’t comment on the battery.  Mine’s been in there since 2007, and seems to be hanging on just fine.


> On Mar 13, 2017, at 5:11 PM, Dauer, Edward <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> I just ordered the KIO3B and a KBPF3 mod kit for the K3.  The process of installing the KBPF3 mod provides access to the small battery under the plastic protective cover.  The K3 is about five years old.  Would it be worth replacing that battery while I am in there, or do they last essentially forever?  The mod will also require removing the Sub Rx.  As I remember, that was the most frustrating part of the original build.  I would appreciate any tips on how to remove and – especially – replace the Sub Rx with a minimum of cussing.  Would removing the right side panel help, or would that just complicate things?
>

Grant NQ5T
K3 #2091, KX3 #8342



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[Don Wilhelm]

Ted,

On the battery replacement, it is easy, bu consider whether you really
use the real time clock on the K3 - keeping the clock going during power
down is its only use.  If you do not use the internal clock, then do not
bother.

When you have the K3 open, it is an opportune time to replace it, but
those batteries last a long time in an application when it is only
keeping the clock chip active (as is the case in the K3).

Compare it to the battery in a computer which does the same function.
How many times have you had to change the battery in your computer?

73,
Don W3FPR

On 3/13/2017 5:11 PM, Dauer, Edward wrote:
> I just ordered the KIO3B and a KBPF3 mod kit for the K3.  The process of installing the KBPF3 mod provides access to the small battery under the plastic protective cover.  The K3 is about five years old.  Would it be worth replacing that battery while I am in there, or do they last essentially forever?  The mod will also require removing the Sub Rx.  As I remember, that was the most frustrating part of the original build.  I would appreciate any tips on how to remove and – especially – replace the Sub Rx with a minimum of cussing.  Would removing the right side panel help, or would that just complicate things?
>
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[Nr4c]

Can't speak for right/left but yes to the one with the handle.

Sent from my iPhone
...nr4c. bill

> On Mar 13, 2017, at 5:11 PM, Dauer, Edward <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> I just ordered the KIO3B and a KBPF3 mod kit for the K3.  The process of installing the KBPF3 mod provides access to the small battery under the plastic protective cover.  The K3 is about five years old.  Would it be worth replacing that battery while I am in there, or do they last essentially forever?  The mod will also require removing the Sub Rx.  As I remember, that was the most frustrating part of the original build.  I would appreciate any tips on how to remove and – especially – replace the Sub Rx with a minimum of cussing.  Would removing the right side panel help, or would that just complicate things?
>
> Tnx,
>
> Ted, KN1CBR
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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>
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> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to [hidden email]

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