Kenwood TS-520S /SE HF Transceiver Capacitor Kit


This is a complete electrolytic capacitor replacement kit (except the 100uf/500V cans - check my other listings for these caps) for the Kenwood TS-520S transceiver. The TS-520S is truly a collector's item for the vintage ham radio enthusiast and represents one of the best of the '70's in HF gear.  Electrolytic capacitors have a design life span which one has to recognize if the intent is to keep your TS-520S running for a long time to come.  Electrolytics over time change value due to leakage, electrical stress, heat exposure etc., and can be very annoying to trouble shoot especially when intermittent. There are 63 small electrolytics used in the TS-520S so for those who like probability calculations, figure out the failure rate possibility for capacitors that already have 30 years of service! In all cases the capacitors have been replaced with the exact value of the original, but in many cases I was able to take advantage of smaller modern day components increasing the voltage rating of the replacement unit. 


Included in the kit is an installation guide to help those along who might feel a bit nervous doing this type of board work.


Technical Notes:

** There is no retuning of the radio required as the capacitors being changed are power supply related, or audio coupling/decoupling. Minor adjustment of the VOX controls may be required when new capacitors are installed.

** Installation Time is approximately 4 hours from start to finish for an experienced technician. For all others take your time and enjoy. Its a great project!


The kit is comprised of 63 capacitors and a 470K ohm 1 watt resistor


The capacitor kit shown in the photo is generic in nature as I have a wide variety of kits for Icom, Kenwood and Yaesu.  Capacitors used in the kit are brand new Nichicon/Panasonic and Illinois Capacitor for axial mounts rated at 85 deg. C or higher.