6000 Series Preventative Maintenance

Tim N9PUZ

I have a Flex-6400M that has performed very well since it was purchased. Like a computer, it has fans, slots for airflow, etc. Is there any recommended procedure for periodic maintenance? Should it be checked inside for dust? Blown out with air? Vacuumed out? Fan blades cleaned?

I have an anti-static bench mat, proper tools, etc. at home and have access to most anything imaginable for electronic repair at work.

Tim N9PUZ

Robert Lonn

Tim, an interesting question!! My Desktop Gaming Computer has 4 fans in it. Plus the main input front fans have a cover and dust filter.. I need to clean that about twice a year. Also the fan on the Microprocessor is cleaned out once a year.. I shut off my computer, use a vacuum cleaner to **** up the dust when I **** it out with a can of compressed air..

As for the Flex,, Only a simple inspection can give you your answers. My Flex is about 2 years old... Back in January I decided to open it up and take a peek. Everything looked relatively clean inside. Used my can air to give it a short air cleaning and put it back together.. The more the radio is ON, the more chances dust will get inside. I shut my 6600M off when not in use.

Now SO MUCH depends on your environment. I have no pets and not much dust here in San Diego. I also have a Winix Plasma Air all room Air Purifier that I run 7 X 24 to minimize dust in the shack.. That helps but does not eliminate radio gear, desk top and STUFF from getting dusty.. 

Robert

https://winixamerica.com/product/c535/?gclid=CjwKCAjwvOHzBRBoEiwA48i6ArM4pi5s2cDNaUdy2LF9B8p27u5BLTALQOX25ThB0kOjAan7erYUvBoC5z8QAvD_BwE

WX7Y

I'm sure you know this but just be careful with these two methods of cleaning,
If you use canned air to **** out the radio HOLD the fan blades from spinning and DON'T let them over speed shortening the life of the Fans drastically.
If you use a vacuum make sure it is designed for Electronics otherwise the Static Electricity inherent to a vacuum WILL fry the radio.  
Bret
WX7Y

Tim N9PUZ

I plan to inspect later in the week. I have my shack in an unfinished basement. It's moderately clean, but still a basement.

Tim N9PUZ

If cleaning is needed I'll most likely use air like you clean a normal computer with. I am aware of not wanting to spin the fans but I appreciate you mentioning it for the benefit of others who may be following the thread.

Tim N9PUZ

Robert, that room aircleaner looks pretty interesting. Might help out with my alergies !

Robert Lonn

Correct, I should have mentioned the vacuum cleaner to use... Holding the plastic tip away from critical components is important or use the one I use, but in all cases be smart about how you do it.

ESD Safe,,

https://www.globaltestsupply.com/product/scs_electronics_vacuum_497ajm?gclid=CjwKCAjw3-bzBRBhEiwAgnnLCmVx5_vg6McEoifuIWVtpxGaJAvlcgCwQyxyepLiUxSBG6wzyHjuLBoC4usQAvD_BwE

Robert Lonn

Tim, this just went on sale today!!!! Save some$$$

https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/winix-true-hepa-6300-2-air-cleaner-with-plasmawave-reg-technology/1046459602?keyword=winix-true-hepa-air-purifier&mcid=EM_Productcampaign_202003_AllergyShop_Offer&rid=1162125702&S_HASH=9f4f5714d1b489c693db8a8c5ffa05db8936c64b5dcf45c0d9bdaf3ee1c385db

henrylance

Is the force of the air stream, from canned air strong enough to get the deep / hidden dust, out of the fans.  Is there one brand o canned air that is better than others.  Somehow, i seem to remember that some are purer than others.

Robert Lonn

I have been using Canned Air that I get at Costco. With can air, the issue is the can will get COLD rather fast.. So burst of air for say 5-10 seconds is normal. After a bit the air pressure will go down a lot, seems normal for most of these I have used... And always keep the can level, dont turn it say upside down. If that happens then a cold MIST will spray from the can... 

On Line you get 12 cans, but they sell 6 cans in the store. Plus canned air is available at lots of places if you only need a single can.. 

https://www.costco.com/dust-off-compressed-gas-duster%2c-12-pack.product.11228077.html

henrylance

Thank you,  k4wh

Tim - W4TME

Please read the HelpDesk article: How to properly clean the FLEX-6000 Cooling fans

Doug

Tim, Doug K9CRT over here in Decatur, IL. I removed the cover from my 6400M (bought 2 yrs ago) and inspected it. I didn't find much dust, lint, etc and my radio is on most of time (LAN use) and is in a finished basement. I really don't think you have much too worry but a inspection when you have time will put your mind to rest. Good luck, good DX and stay safe in this crazzzzzzzzzzy world. I might add I cleaned my fan with an old tooth brush but it is very difficult to get in there. I also used some Q-tips to sort of clean up not only the fan but else where. Like I said really not much there.

KC2QMA_John

Maybe someone at flex can make a video on how to properly clean/maintain a flexradio including fans?
May make for less helpdesk tickets on this issue.