I thought I would share some comments concerning my personal experiences
in building my first K-2. Perhaps this will help someone starting out.
I am not a skilled electronics technician, and I am a bit of a klutz
with mechanical stuff. Many years ago I built a Heathkit hi-fi stereo
amp. I remember that I learned nothing about testing or troubleshooting
from that experience.
In general I really enjoyed putting the K-2 together. I learned a lot.
I now feel I know this radio and can solve problems on my own.
I made a few mistakes during construction.
First, I did not really understand capacitor identification codes when I
started. As a result, I misidentified a couple capacitors and installed
them in the wrong locations. I recommend that anyone new to this stuff
take the time to read carefully page 9 of the manual, as well as
material from the ARRL handbook on component identification. When in
doubt, ask.
Second, I was a bit timid in my soldering technique. I was afraid of
burning something, so I was gentler than I needed to be. Fortunately, I
was able to have a friend with 40 years experience in aircraft
electronics look over my work. I have followed his suggestions and
things have gone better. If you, like me, are new to soldering, get
some advice from an elmer; it can save you considerable turmoil later.
Third, I wound my own toroids. I generally did not find that hard to
do. Kind of like sewing a button; it was relaxing. I did however have
problems with preparation of toroid leads. I did not realize the
toroids were nonconducting, so I was afraid of bare wires near the
toroid surface. Some of my first leads were not stripped close enough
to the toroid body.
I also tried different techniques to strip the leads. I eventually
reached the conclusion that the approach recommended by the manual is
the best. I used a heavier soldering iron, got a bulb of solder going
on it, and ran the toroid wire through the ball. This worked the best
and left a good, tinned surface.
Finally, I made a couple of mistakes due to fatigue. This is really a
nit-picky process, and it is really easy to space things out when you
are tired.
IN solving problems, I found it good to proofread parts placement,
especially after building the RF board. I went through the manual and
checked off every component for the proper number and orientation.
That gave me confidence that I had done it right.
Anyway, I hope these comments help someone.
IF I CAN DO THIS YOU CAN DO THIS.
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