I have one of these that was given to me some time ago which I plan to use this summer. So I thought I would repair it. The plastic covers of the terminal connections have cracked and need replacing, I either need a source for them or the same socket as my 5500 would allow me to swap them over. (My 5500 has a failed pot I think) does anybody have a source for these bits? I tested the 5400 last night and all's working fine except: The azimuth rotator refused to move CCW until I worked CW/CCW a few times, I'm thinking thats a sticky relay in the control box as it was totally silent when the CCW button was pressed. That will possibly cure it's self with a bit of use as it's working now. The elevation feedback was erratic to start with but has now settled down, I'm supposing dirty pot in that one which will also cure it's self with a bit of use. The issue I really have is should I strip them down? Both have quiet operation C/W and elevate but both are nosier on return CCW and descend. I checked the bearings on the elevation unit through the inspection cap and under the terminal screws and they look fine, shiny and greased. I'm unable to check the azimuth unit without cracking it open. What's the feeling on preventative maintaince on these units? Does anybody add a drain hole to them? Which I could not find or they are blocked. 73
Paul Luggar
M0SCI
Website WWW.M0SCI.CO.UK
Amsat-UK Member 6484
www.m0sci.co.uk/forum Devon and Cornwalls Amateur Radio Message Board
Hi to the group.
For those in colder climates; the repair/rebuild/maintenance of these AZ/EL units is an opportunity to put in low temperature grease.
Our experience here is that the EL unit is okay "as is" from the factory but the AZ unit isn't going to rotate at -30C or lower. There is no tower work done here in the winter so this is definitely as summer project.
This morning it was -35C
73, Alan VE4YZ AMSAT 35968
http://www.mts.net/~ve4wsc/ AMSAT A-485
participants (2)
-
Alan Thoren
-
Paul Luggar