Kenwood: Kenwood TM-281A mod to transmit above 149MHz

[racechase01]

So I have read multiple posts about how to do this mod but I didn't see an answer to a question I have. I just purchased a brand new Kenwood TM-281A yesterday and was wondering if I should do the mod before I even power it up for the first time. I'm only wondering because I see that people talk about resetting the radio after they do the mod. My thinking is that if I do it fresh out of the Box once I fired up I'll be good to go. Any thoughts?

 

[mmckenna]

Why?
The radio does not have FCC Part 90 certification to use outside the amateur radio bands. It would not be legal to transmit outside the 144-148 range. I know a lot of people do it, mostly because they just don't know any better, but getting the correct radio in the first place will work better and stay on the right side of your license.

 

[racechase01]

Why?
The radio does not have FCC Part 90 certification to use outside the amateur radio bands. It would not be legal to transmit outside the 144-148 range. I know a lot of people do it, mostly because they just don't know any better, but getting the correct radio in the first place will work better and stay on the right side of your license.

For use in a chase truck for off road races in Mexico. The three or so times I go down there per year to help a team out doesn't warrant another radio.

 

[mmckenna]

Or, just do what the rest of us do, get a commercial radio and just program in the 2 meter frequencies. I've only one radio in my truck, and I use it for work stuff and amateur. You'll find the commercial stuff works better and sounds better.

As for your original question, I don't know. Haven't bought an amateur only radio in a very long time. Made the switch and never looked back. I'm sure there is someone here that can assist.

 

[Sporrt]

So I have read multiple posts about how to do this mod but I didn't see an answer to a question I have. I just purchased a brand new Kenwood TM-281A yesterday and was wondering if I should do the mod before I even power it up for the first time. I'm only wondering because I see that people talk about resetting the radio after they do the mod. My thinking is that if I do it fresh out of the Box once I fired up I'll be good to go. Any thoughts?

Why would you open up a transceiver, and alter it, without powering it up and testing it first??

1. When you power (for the first time) it up after altering it, and it doesn't work. You don't know if you caused the issue, or it was DOA and eligible for the 10 day return period.
2. Is resetting the radio after a mod really a big deal?
It's usually quick, and simple.
Maybe I'm not understanding your objective/reasoning.

 

[racechase01]

Why would you open up a transceiver, and alter it, without powering it up and testing it first??

1. When you power (for the first time) it up after altering it, and it doesn't work. You don't know if you caused the issue, or it was DOA and eligible for the 10 day return period.
2. Is resetting the radio after a mod really a big deal?
It's usually quick, and simple.
Maybe I'm not understanding your objective/reasoning.

No it's not. I was just curious as I have never does this before. You have a good point about the warranty so I guess I will power her up tonight. Thanks.

 

[devicelab]

Open the case, desolder the resistor, put the lid back on and power it back up. The radio will reset.

 

[KD2FIQ]

I think you'll be fine. I have two 281A's. I did it to one of them.