@ai6yr 1/2 Nice! I realized one day that I didn't need fancy new ham-specific LiFePo batteries; I have a garage full of power tool batteries. DC/DC converter to step down to 13.8 volts and Bob's yer uncle.
The 8AH 20v battery here is about 13AH at 12v, and will run my 100w HF rig for an entire day of portable ops with no issues.
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AI6YR Ben
In response to this post@W6KME Oooh, mounting the heat sink on bottom, that might be a better idea. The longest part of this project (which took WAY TOO LONG) was getting the stupid Torx screws out of the hard plastic. Two I got, but the other two I spent 30 minutes drilling out, and then ended up wrenching them part by force LOL. Curse Mr. Torx.
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W6KME
In response to this post@ai6yr 2/2 Remember Power Wheels? When they quit selling replacement batteries, owners were stuck until people started making power tool battery adapters. You'll find them for any brand on eBay. wire that to the DC/DC converter, add power poles or whatever, and off you go. Battery running low? Snap on another, just like your drill.
@W6KME Oooh, that is a great idea. They had bundled chargers for the Stihls I purchased, and I don't need all 3 chargers (that said, I just need a switch on the converter and it's still a charger).
by AI6YR Ben ;
@ai6yr 3/2 When I take out the QRP radio, a mere 1.5AH drill battery will run it longer than my interest holds out. Very small and light weight.
by W6KME ;
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