SpeedX CW Key Restoration

Nye Viking SpeedX  310-003 Straight Key is a classic straight CW key first made by Les Logan (1937 ), then by E.F. Johnson (1947), and now by Wm M. Nye Company (early 1970s), the zinc bases of the Speed-X keys have been cast in the same molds since the 1930s. Although the Speed-X brand has changed hands a few times in the past 90 years, its legacy remains unbeaten.

This Speed-X key was made sometime on or after 1972 and incorporates a circuit closer switch (missing). The black oval Zinc base of the key is 2 x 3 inches and has a black crinkle finish.The knob on this key is known as a Navy knob.

The Speed-X model 310-003 is a copy of a Bunnell Triumph key with “SPEED-X” stamped on the top center of the lever and chrome plated parts.

Even today, a used key of this type is being sold for over $60 on eBay and elsewhere. I am so happy that I could bring it back to life ahead of JOTA 2022. I am planning to demonstrate CW to the scouts.

The key I got from 4S7VK-Victor has been used by 4S7EA, 4S5JL (later 4S7JL) and 4S7VK. So indeed it is not just a key, but a piece of telegraphic history.

As you have noticed already, key arms were corroded badly and the chrome plating was no longer shiny. I tried my best to polish them again and give its original looks with what I had with me.

 

 

https://wb3gck.files.wordpress.com/2018/11/rm3and2-manual_figure-4-3_600.png

I replaced the trunnion screws, lock nuts, binding posts with new ones as they had caught rust quite badly. But the colours did not match the original

Related posts

4 Thoughts to “SpeedX CW Key Restoration”

  1. Ridma anjana

    එල ආ

  2. Ridma

    This is interesting.Nice to see those old stuffs..Keep it up this good work😇

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.