Launched in the early 1980s, the Drake TR7 is well-known among the ham community. But its commercial cousin, the Drake TR4310, is less common.

Unlike the TR7, which uses the classic Drake permeability tuned oscillator (PTO), the TR4310 has a synthesised main oscillator similar to the RV-75 external VFO. Otherwise, the internals of the TR4310 are almost identical to a TR7A. As you can see below, the TR4310 is designed for mounting in a 19in rack.

Drake TR4310 transceiver

I obtained my TR4310 in good condition, except for a blown PA unit. In the right of the photo above you can see that the PA and heatsink assembly has already been removed for overhaul.

The radio appears to have been operated for some time without a PA fan. On inspection, the ceramic cap of each PA transistor was found to be detached from its body. A comprehensive 'toasting' indeed.