AB3AP Bayou Jumper

AB3AP Bayou Jumper Build

I greatly enjoyed building a Bayou Jumper, a regenerative (positive feedback) QRP 40m transceiver. The following photos show a few of the major steps from unboxing to finished transceiver. Topping it off was my first QSO with Joe W3GMS, who first told told me about the Bayou Jumper on the local repeater.

When calling CQ using the built-in straight key, I regularly see my call on the CW Club RBN Spotter page pop up at 7121.1 kHz. Even when I'm not getting replies to my CQ at least I know I'm getting out - and that my keying is legible! Please call if you hear me.

Building

Construction is all through-hole, so it is a very easy build. The component requiring the most work is winding the single toroid.

The manual describes adjustment of toroid windings and a variable capacitor to move the receiver into the 40m band. If you have an oscilloscpe or access to a friend's, it makes the job a snap.

I bought the US $6 wood box at Hobby Lobby recommended in the manual. It does the job but quality is not tops. While hinges and clasp are metal, the handle is plastic. Be sure, if you choose to paint it, that you buy paint good for both metal and plastic. You might even prefer to buy a pricier but higher quality box.

Front Panel

Nearly all questions I get are about repainting and labeling the front panel. Importantly, there is no need to repaint. I did so simply because I think the hammered silver, recommended by Jim N5IB, gives it a more retro look. But then, of course, you must apply your own lettering. Use emery cloth to gently rough the front panel before painting, clean it, then give 2 quick coats. Two days later it might need two more if you see pin holes of PCB show through.

To make decals, I use gimp but Photoshop will work as well. Both programs take a bit of time to learn, but it's well worth the effort. (I made my QSL cards with gimp. and here is another fun example of what gimp can do.) The Agent 86 and CONTROL logos were constructed from scratch using functions in gimp. The one exception is that I grabbed the globe off the web, then added text and circle around it.

After printing decals on water slide ink jet decal paper, give 2 or 3 light clear coats to protect the ink. Otherwise it will wash off in the water. If you use laser printer decals I think you don't have to clear coat them. Put knobs on for location reference and apply decals. After drying, clear coat and the panel is done!

My Souper Upper purchase arrived first and is unboxed.