SNIP

Howdy Rick...

Very wise choice not to get it... I used them for years and they were not
the best to be sure---I simply was not impressed.. My R-71A's out
performed
them hands down. In more than one instance the R-71A pulled out a signal
that the 3031 couldn't hear. Close in to port they were easily overloaded
by AM broadcasters---even with the preselector.

Using the service manual and tracing the wiring diagram from page to page
was an act in frustration. I often read of heated comments written in the
service manual by others servicing the radio---I added my own!

Just to change out a defective audio gain control required the front panel
to be stripped (ripped) off---it's stuck on with contact adhesive or
double-sided tape---I had to do this in a war zone! I was able to remove
the panel without bending it too much but I am certain that any front
panel
controls that need changing will also require a new front panel. After I
replaced the pot I found the part numbering in the service manual was
incorrect for the part I changed out and I had to put the old one back in!
Fortunately I had Sailor HF set up and a spare receiver.

Spare parts from Mackay? You could expect to pay a small fortune that
would
shock a salty sailor! I never did find out how much those meter lamps
cost
for the 3031 but I sure had to hang a little bag of them on the rear
panel---they were changed out at least once every six weeks. I remember
ordering a 2 inch nylon caps to cover the hole where the crank handle was
fitted on our lifeboat radio---Mackay wanted $75.00 each! A pair of caps
off an Amphenol connector did the trick instead.

Yup... it's all modular construction... so how do you repair it without a
test fixture to plug the module in to---to get at the components? I just
don't recall if extender boards were available for this receiver---I never
saw them in my spares lockers on any of the ships I sailed on.

RG

RG,

Well I'm sure glad I didn't buy it now. I don't need that kind of a
headache. I'm fairly good with electronics but not to the extent where I'm
going to have to do surgury on the radio just to make a simple repair. I am
also not interested in bank rolling some supply company just for a few spare
parts. The price of the radio wasn't bad but I think I'd be paying dearly in
the long run.

I do want to purchase a "Premium Receiver", I'll just have to keep looking
and maybe shell out a little more cash to get one that is more reliable.
I've been leaning towards the Harris, so when one becomes available I'll
probably purchase it.

Rick