Gentlemen, I had a breakthrough today with my KX3 paddles. I disassembled them, and cleaned the pivot pin.
I found that the contact screws are 'cupped' on the end. I used a very fine stone and removed the sharp edge as I could see with my magnifier that the edges of the cup had made an indentation on the brass plating on the contact post. I loosened the screw and rotated each post about 90 degrees and re-tightened the screws. A quick polish with a "Scotchbrite" pad and they were done. I then removed the two screws that align the spring. Next I mounted a 1/8 dia, 1/16 thick N42 Rare-Earth magnet over each screw hole. The magnets are arranged so that they "repel" not attract. I then reassembled the paddles adding just a touch of "White" lubricant from a spray can (sprayed on a clean surface and used a Q-Tip to apply small amount to pivot pins). Result, not enough repel force. I then added another identical magnet (just get it near and it will align itself perfectly) to each arm. The result is now perfect. The paddles are smooth, free moving and after a contact adjustment, work perfectly. A very light touch, and positive return. And, no run-away dits or dahs. And, no more dits or dahs when I press down on the finger pieces as before. More tests to follow, but so far I'm pleased. ....bill nr4c -----Original Message----- From: Rick Tavan N6XI [mailto:rta...@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2012 2:03 AM To: Ralph Parker Cc: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 CW paddles Actually, I have found the KX3 paddle surprisingly comfortable. I've been using it both at home and outdoors. Of course, if I were using the KX3 as a long-term, fixed station radio, then I would plug in a high quality, heavyweight paddle. I have several. But for home testing and casual operating, the KXPD3 is quite good. The handles are small for my average-size hands but that hasn't been the issue I thought it would be. I send as well with it as I do with my larger paddles. I just have to be a little more careful when reaching for it and, because it's attached to the radio on a crowded desk, it isn't always in the optimum position. Nice paddle. /Rick On Tue, Jul 24, 2012 at 11:23 AM, Ralph Parker <ve...@dccnet.com> wrote: > >This little paddle is cute and ingenious. But it drives me crazy!... > > I don't have a KX3 (yet), but I do consider my self a serious CW operator. > I would not expect the stick-on paddles of the KX3 (or KX1) to be used for > more than casual mountaintop operation. I wouldn't drag my Begali (or my > Elecraft HexKey) out in the woods - I'd take my Palm paddles or Paddlette, > or wait for the new Begali design. > > For inside use, I wouldn't give up the accuracy and ease of sending I get > with my separate keyer and regular paddles, whatever they happen to be at > the moment. > > Respectfully submitted, > Ralph, VE7XF -- Rick Tavan N6XI Truckee, CA ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
