B&B Tech: Full Monte TS-440S/AT

"FULL MONTY" TREATMENT FOR THE ICOM R-71/A

The Icom R71/R71A represents the best of the "old school" synthesized SWL rigs. The actually make great ham receivers, too, if you are into "separates", or a QRP homebrewer looking for a really good receiver to use with your Tuna Tin II!

As with most older rigs, these suffer from a bit of heat stress around the regulator area on the main unit. They also need TLC as far as changing the memory battery; one wrong move and the operating system for the radio goes away!

The R71 can also suffer from bad VCO variable trimmer caps. We can change these if they are a problem.

There are a few electrolytic caps that cause problems also.

One thing you may notice with rapid tuning around the band, particularly in SSB/CW mode; there will be an audible "pop" every now and then as the LPL loop resets. This is normal and servicing and alignment will not help that particular issue.

Here's what you get for the Full Monty on the R71/A:

	R&R (remove/replace) the main unit, resolder around the 3-terminal regulators.
	R&R the RAM unit and replace the memory battery
	realign all PLLs as needed; repl trimmers as needed
	replace audio output cap on main unit
	R&R Power Supply Unit, repl main filter cap
	replace meter lamp, if needed
	lube VFO shaft
	align RF and IF stages; calibrate S meter
	clean controls as needed
	any other minor repairs needed
	on-air check all bands

All this for a Full Monte rate of only $199 (major parts and shipping extra).

IMPORTANT NOTE: FOLLOW OUR SHIPPING ADVICE! THE FRONT PANEL CONTROLS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE. IF YOURS IS DAMAGED IN SHIPPING, WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO REPAIR IT. SEE THE SHIPPING PAGE FOR PACKING INSTRUCTIONS. DO NOT USE THE ORIGINAL BOX.

SHOULD I FIX IT, OR REPLACE IT?
When deciding whether to "fix or replace" the R71/A, keep in mind the replacement cost of an HF SWL rig with the features of the R71. If available, a good desktop shortwave receiver could cost $1200 and up. See our "op ed" piece here. Please contact us if you need help deciding which way to go. We want you to be happy, regardless.