DX-440 won't tune with knob. Direct entry only

[bbo14]

My Realistic DX-440 has been around here for a long time. It no longer tunes with the tuning knob, only direct frequency entry is possible. Also, if I don't keep the radio locked, it will "take off" and start jumping frequency after while. Has anyone ever had any success repairing the encoders in these radios? Or maybe finding a suitable replacement?

 

[rf_patriot200]

My Realistic DX-440 has been around here for a long time. It no longer tunes with the tuning knob, only direct frequency entry is possible. Also, if I don't keep the radio locked, it will "take off" and start jumping frequency after while. Has anyone ever had any success repairing the encoders in these radios? Or maybe finding a suitable replacement?

If you feel adventurous, maybe open it up, and use a magnifier to inspect the ribbon cable and connections ? I used to have the DX 440 but never had that problem with it. But it's what i'd suggest trying since you can't hurt it by looking.

 

[bkantor]

Following...I have a DX440 - when I was young I foolishly cut something (I had instructions) to stop the muting while tuning and now the frequencies jump sometimes. I may just sell as is and let someone else fix it.

 

[mmckenna]

Mine does that. Often the rotary encoder in the tuning knob gets dirty. You might want to open it up carefully and blow the dust out with a can of compressed air.

 

[bbo14]

Following...I have a DX440 - when I was young I foolishly cut something (I had instructions) to stop the muting while tuning and now the frequencies jump sometimes. I may just sell as is and let someone else fix it.

Yeah, I remember that mod. It was called the "anti-chuff mod". You could reverse that mod.

 

[bbo14]

Mine does that. Often the rotary encoder in the tuning knob gets dirty. You might want to open it up carefully and blow the dust out with a can of compressed air.

Thanks again for some more good advice. BTW: I was successful opening up my ICOM IC-F221 using your instructions. Thanks for that too.

 

[ditto1958]

I miss the days when most things were repairable 😢

 

[bbo14]

Not only repairable, but you could find parts to fix them.

 

[N6JPA]

My Realistic DX-440 has been around here for a long time. It no longer tunes with the tuning knob, only direct frequency entry is possible. Also, if I don't keep the radio locked, it will "take off" and start jumping frequency after while. Has anyone ever had any success repairing the encoders in these radios? Or maybe finding a suitable replacement?

I had the same happen to me years ago. I couldn't find any cable problems, so I just junked it then bought a new radio. If all your cables are good then you should consider buying a new portable SWL radio. IMHO.

 

[ditto1958]

Well, even if they were easily repairable with readily available parts, people are selling this radio on eBay for $50 and less.

 

[Falcon9h]

Seems I remember the encoder is mechanical with contactors. I forget how I disassembled or cleaned it though.
Don't junk it, you could still use it as is.