Hi Folks,
Converting an FT-101 to 6146B (or the 12 volt equivalent - the 6883B) can be easily done and will produce slightly over 100 watts on the lower frequencies and up to 80 watts on 10 meters. Properly neutralized
(there were some errors in the 1999 QST article), there are no birdies, snaps, crackles or pops whatsoever. I have just recently converted 2 FT-101E's and another ham has done one as well.
To facilitate the conversion, we've prepared a website with instructions and pictures -
www.k3jls.net/FT-101.html . While still 'preliminary', we hope to finalize it shortly.
If you do check it out, please e-mail me with any comments, suggestions or constructive criticisms.
If you are able to find a good
matched set of 6SJ6C tubes, then the conversion is moot. Admittedly, these TV sweep tubes will produce more RF than the 6146's, and at a lower plate voltage as well.
But the 6146B tube family has been designed for RF use, is clearly more rugged, is less expensive, and is more easily secured. This is probably why Yaesu opted for the 6146's in the redesigned FT-101ZD series.
73's - Joe - K3JLS