[BC] BC-1G Advice

[Craig Healy]

> > Speaking of transmitter mods, has anyone tried
> > swapping out hard to find 5-500 tubes for
> > 5CX1500 type?
>
> Bauer Xmitter Co started out with 4-400's went
> 5-500's then back to 4-400's as I recall. The
> offered field kits for the changes. Don't know
> what other boxes these would work in, but you
> could check with Bauer (they are still in
> business in Texas).

I thought of that.  Around 1975 I changed the 4-400C to a 4-500A type in an
RCA BTA-1R.  Filed with the FCC for permission, and got it without a
problem.  I think I bought two filament transformers from Sparta for it.
Really worked well.  Doubled tube life, and the positive peaks would
actually exceed 125%.  Other than the filament transformers, it was a
plug-in.  I don't even think it took more than a very minor retuning, about
the same as any tube swap would require.

The glass envelope tubes are getting hard to find.  I suppose the ceramics
will too, soon enough.  This is just in the "what-if" stage anyhow.  I'd
balance the cost with maybe one of the solid state rigs built for the 160m
band by AM fans.  Those look like they would do the job as a backup and take
little room as well.

Craig Healy
Providence, RI