Asrto Spectra HHCH Conversion

[W6WAW]

After doing a search, I found some information, but not exactly what I need to know.

If possible, I am considering converting an Astro Spectra with an W5 head to a W3, HHCH. I can choose between two radios to do this with. One is a mid-power dash mount and the other is a high power trunk mount.

I understand that I need to change the interface board, regardless which radio I select, to accomodate the W3 head.

Now, it appears that the dash mount W3 interface board kit, HLN6459 is around $80 retail from MOL. The trunk mount W3 interconnect board kit, HLN6574, is around $220 retail. Does anyone know the reason for significant difference in price -- other than that is just the way MOL prices them? Can the cheaper board be used in the trunk mount?

If I go the dash mount conversion route, I understand that I must do the usual thing of putting a remote mount front plate on the radio, etc. Does the HHCH "Y" cable, HKN6096, work with this configuration as well as the trunk mount?

Finally, do I need to put a W3 codeplug in the radio or will the change in interface boards handle the W3 without this?

Thanks for any comments and suggestions.

Fred Bray
W6WAW

[jmr061]

Now, it appears that the dash mount W3 interface board kit, HLN6459 is around $80 retail from MOL. The trunk mount W3 interconnect board kit, HLN6574, is around $220 retail. Does anyone know the reason for significant difference in price -- other than that is just the way MOL prices them? Can the cheaper board be used in the trunk mount?

Motorola pricing never makes sense. The boards are NOT interchangable. The cheaper one is for the low/mid power drawers and the expensive one is for the hi power drawers.

If I go the dash mount conversion route, I understand that I must do the usual thing of putting a remote mount front plate on the radio, etc. Does the HHCH "Y" cable, HKN6096, work with this configuration as well as the trunk mount? You can use the 6096 cable on all low/mid/hi power w3 setups.

Finally, do I need to put a W3 codeplug in the radio or will the change in interface boards handle the W3 without this? The radio must have it codeplug changed to w3.

See above bold face for your answers.

Jason

[W6WAW]

Thanks!

That tells me what I need to know.

Fred