MFJ-9420 Portable Set-up in an OGIO Locker Bag

This is my MFJ-9420 set up for portable use in an OGIO "Original Locker Bag." The radio is powered by a 7.5Ah lead acid battery, connected to the radio with an automobile accessory (cigar) power plug. On the other end of the rig is a LDG Z-100 "Ultra" autotuner with the W4RT internal battery pack. On top is a Workman 20m "Hamstick" with a counterpoise. This day (6/8/08) I was mainly concerned about tuning the whip . . . checking to see if this set-up would work. While testing, I found that the radio itself wouldn't tune any higher than 14.338 MHz (supposed to go up to .350). Thus, I didn't make any contacts that day. Upon returing home, I took some compressed air to the tuning capacitor, and it seems to tune to the end of the band now. BTW, tuning was checked with a MFJ-204B antenna bridge and a Radio Shack frequency counter. I should be ready for some picnic table portable contacts the next time I venture out.

***Update***
I've had to take the MFJ-9420 apart for some "touch-up soldering." Guess you truly don't own an MFJ product until you've fixed the problems from the factory. Will see if it works like it should now. I also removed the green power LED. It seems redundant, especially with a light behind the meter. Saves 20mA of power . . . woot!

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Ham
• Radio
• Amateur
• MFJ-9420
• OGIO
• Locker
• Bag
• LDG
• Z-100
• radio
• testing

[AudiophileTubes]

Very nice! I have a similar setup, but use a 'PAR End Fedz' that I throw up over a tree branch.

[johnkc8jzo]

Actually, this setup has been dismantled. Now it's in a padded case with an End-Fedz! I'll have to do a video on it soon. Still deciding on a new power supply method though. I have a 7Ah lead acid and would like to go with something different. Been thinking about the A123 batts.

[VictoreCelia]

cool...

[johnkc8jzo]

Thanks!

[VImessenjah]

Very good! The AADE freq counter works perfect with this radio if you want to know what exact freq you are on. I had this rig and it worked great.

[mazdaman1982]

Hey cool vid i like your vids i will sub to you come check out my channel tell me what you thing rate comment and if you could sub back that would be great keep up the good work

[OH2FFY]

I hope to see more videos on this radio from you.

It looks neat.

Regards

gregW:-)

**See my Ham radio videos on YouTube**

[ukorganist]

Cool!

[Tommyr]

Nice set up! I have the 9475 and love it!