The Dreaded TK-3207 Bootleg And It's Elusive Test Mode.

[willardfishbean]

So some months ago a guy brings a 3207 into my shop and wants me to program it for him. I tell him sure, but ask him where he got it because I had never heard of that model before. He finally fesses up that he bought it online from China and couldn't get it to program. Being one to never turn away a paying job as easy as programming a portable, I agree to give it a shot after I explain to him why buying a "real" radio from the dealer is always a better idea. After hours of tinkering with every version of KPG-87D I could find, multiple versions of windows, multiple types of programming cables, and every COM setting windows would allow, I finally found a sweet spot where I could both write and read the program. Charged the guy $130, which he was happy to pay, and sent him on his way. Well about a month later another guy shows up with a 3207. He gets the same spiel and after 15min of programming, I'm $130 richer.
This is where the problem starts... Word must be getting out about these cheap Chinese Kenwoods. It seems like every time I search for radios on ebay the 3207 is there. I've had five 3207's this last month come in to be programmed. One of those needs a bit of tuning... which I have never been able to get to work. I honestly make more money programming these bootlegs than I do selling them the real McCoy. It would be absolutely fantastic if I could make a little more from tuning these 3207's up as well.

Anyone willing to share any tips or pointers on getting into test mode with a TK-3207??

Thanks!

 

[silverbk]

I have never come across one, but I did come across it looking at Ebay for accessories for a few 3200 and 3200l radios that I acquired.

I have some questions: are these on the same chassis as the 3200 and L? Will the case parts interchange?

It would be nice if I could purchase the 3207 rebuild kit for under $5.00 on Ebay and rebuild my rentals. I am going to try one and see how it works.