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Date: Sat, 29 Sep 2001 14:24:59 -0400
From: Jim Campbell <jim-c at nc.rr.com>
Subject: [Elecraft] Broken Toroid - Summary

Thanks to all for the prompt, helpful replies to my question both on the
list and directly to me.  I learned a number of things.

First, you can use super-glue or the like to glue the toroid back
together and it will probably work just fine.  I've glued the toroid
back together and will continue with the assembly of the K2.  However,
since it is used in the VFO circuit, I will replace it in due time.  I
would always wonder if it was the cause of any unusual behavior by the
K2.  Also, I want my K2 to be the best it can be.

Second, thanks to Tom Hammond, N0SS, I learned how to strip the magnet
wire properly with a soldering iron.  I quote from Tom's instructions:

"Get your iron hot, melt a blob of fresh solder on the tip of the iron.
Insert the CUT END of the wire into the solder blob and wait 3-4
seconds,
until the enamel begins to smoke and bubble. Then add a bit more solder
(for the rosin, not for the solder itself) and slowly insert more of the

wire, until you have the required length of wire stripped and tinned.
Withdraw the wire in the same manner as you inserted it. The result
should
be a fully-tinned lead with only a small amount of burnt enamel residue
on
it. Take your thumbnail and pull the lead across it to scrape away any
remaining residue."

I wish I had known this earlier.  I did use a soldering iron, but
apparently didn't use the proper technique.  I was using sandpaper to
complete the job when I broke the toroid.

Third, toroids are available in lots of places.  From where I live
(Raleigh, NC) delivery time can be problematic.  I chose to go with
Radio Shack online.  Four of these toroids plus shipping is less than $8
and delivery in less than a week.  Another ham offered to send me one,
but he is on the west coast. My mail from the west coast is taking well
over a week these days.

Last, I learned how fast and helpful this list is in responding to
problems.  I'm looking forward to meeting many of you on the air in the
coming weeks and months.

Thanks again,

72 and 73,

Jim
W4BQP

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