Ham Radio - Alinco DX 70 multi encoder repair

I replace the multi-knob encoder on a DX-70. The original part, made by ALPS, is no longer available. Keep your dead radios for parts! I found a nearly identical encoder in a much newer buy completely dead TYT mobile!

[@haywire17]

I think your critic of the original encoder being "chinsey" is spot-on. My Alinco DX-70TH has been this way for many years. I just now began researching how to fix it. If I cannot clean it and get it working (now that I know it is mechanical switches... I thought it was optical...), I will not even bother opening up the unit, knowing I have nothing to replaced it with. "Discontinued" seems to be the norm these days... It is a challenge even keeping my vintage Motorcycles running...

[@marksntl7632]

Nice one buddy! I can remember replacing those all the time when I worked at an Alinco Distributor and new ones were available from Alinco. One of the only common faults on the DX70. Most other faults were caused from lighting damage or being dropped.... Very reliable radio really apart from that encoder....

[@derekthwaytes4689]

nice useful video as my multifunction switch is a bit on the sloppy side and I have started to use up down buttons on the keys on the mike, which can be a useful get around, if you cant get a the replacement part.

[@allan95]

My Dx70 frequency display flashes and i have poor receive does anyone have ideas to help me repair it please

[@piercebruneau1284]

Hi Kevin, Do you happen to have a schematic for the stock DX-70 control panel cable?

[@loughkb]

No. But you should be able to find the service manual or schematic with a google search.

[@1OFGODSOWN]

Why not just use the VFO knob to change frequencies? Seems like an Easy solution to me?

[@loughkb]

The multi-function encoder does much more than just change frequencies. It's used in several other functions that are needed.

[@macp8854]

Part is available on E_Bay for about 5 bucks. Only caveat is you have to cross 2 pins. I will try to post info on purchase.

[@harleyquinn7563]

Any idea on the TYT encoder part number?

[@loughkb]

No, sorry. I don't remember. It's a pretty common encoder type though.

[@mgtowdarrelldundee8643]

@@loughkb what causes the display to flash

[@loughkb]

I can only guess. Many rigs will indicate an unlock of the VCO's by display. Kenwoods display dots, maybe they flash the display in these. If one of the VCO's is out of lock, it could cause the received signal to warble a bit, like as if you were slightly jiggling the VFO knob back and forth. Just a guess.

[@GordonHudson]

Alps make one that is electrically identical and fits, but it has a different shaft. You have to modify the shaft before you fit it or the knob won't fit.

[@peterducloux3231]

Hi Gordon - do you happen to know the model/part number of the similar multi encoder that Alps can supply for the Alinco DX-70 ?

[@GordonHudson]

@@peterducloux3231 Original Rotary encoder: ALPS EC11B15204 Spec: Encoder: incremental; THT; 15imp/revol; two phase A and B; 10mA Here are the two possibles, but you need to check the pin spacing, I think they are OK though. EC11B15244A7 - electrically compatible EC11E15244G1 - has correct shaft As long as they are electrically identical they will work. The difficulty is finding one that will physically fit without hacking the front panel apart.

[@peterducloux3231]

Thanks Gordon for your prompt reply. I'm located in VK4 and and think I may have found a supplier. Just awaiting a response from my inquiry. Will let you know. Cheers Peter

[@GordonHudson]

@@peterducloux3231 Interested to hear how you get on.

[@peterducloux3231]

@@GordonHudson Good news at last (not much around these days ! ) - finally located a similar encoder, locally, and made a few changes to the length of the shaft and fitting for the knob. Encoder now working the way it should.

[@jamesduncan6164]

CaN ANYONE TELL ME WHERE TO FIND THE ENCODER STAY SAFE MM0HDW

[@nevenification]

nice one. what's up dude

[@ri3cjoh]

I have a drawer full of those.

[@1OFGODSOWN]

I bit that causes a lot of irritation? I keep other things in my drawers. LOL

[@edwinklaver]

Great videos, not just this one. Can you give me a part number of the encoder you used. I have a 70th with the same problem. I love the radio, it was my first ever HF rig, bought it new, somewhere around 1999. I would greatly appreciate the help.

[@loughkb]

Sorry, but I don't have it. They're very common though. I think I took that one out of a dead Chinese 2 meter mobile. I sold most of those parts when I moved in to the RV.

[@loughkb]

There's probably a part number on your bad one that you can search for on digikeys web site.

[@edwinklaver]

@@loughkb Thanks for getting back with me

[@DoRC]

bad design. they should have used an encoder that connects the chassis itself just like the other knobs

[@excx5cb]

Very bad encoder .