I can see and I can hear (my half-built radio)
I’m past the point of no return on my big kit build, and right now I’m a happy lad. You see, I’ve got a working digital display, there is sound and so far I’ve not managed to injure myself. All points in my favour.
The last big kit build (for me) was a HW-8, constructed in the back room at CFCY more than thirty years ago. That kit still works; a tribute to my friends, who took on the daunting task of troubleshooting. Thirty years without any real practice doesn’t bode well; this isn’t like “riding a bicycle”. This time around, I decided to build a general coverage receiver (already have some transceivers).
What have I to offer someone else who wants to get their own TT-1254? Cheap advice. Yes, the instructions will get you through, but don’t try to skip sections. Don’t try to populate large sections at a time. Don’t use too big an iron, and take the time to sit back and pet the dog. You will get cramps in the shoulders and back.
Call on others to check resistor colours. With smaller components, the bands are narrow, and the variations in hue and shade will not help you. Use your VOM liberally. When you get to the various transformers and filters, reread the section in the manual about identifying parts. There are some important clues in there.
I had help, when it came to checking sections. Trying to hold probes in place while you wind the core slugs is not easy (how many hands did you get in the great body part lottery?)
To review: I have a working display. I have sound. I have voltages within the suggested ranges. I have the wisdom to stop for this evening and get some sleep before pressing on.
