Icom IC-2720 DriveAmp Transistor Failure

[arkansasbill]

I have the subject dual band 2 mtr/70 cm fm transceiver. It habitually blows
Q25 (2sk3075) drive amplifier in the power amplifier. I have replaced this
transistor several times and the unit may work for a month or several months
before blowing this transistor again. Has anyone else had the same trouble
and is there a cure that anyone has identified??
Thanks,
Bill KC5MN

 

[Moleculo]

I had the same radio a while back and had the typical failure you described. In my case, Icom repaired it for free as this was happening with many of those radios. I've copied an email below that has been floating around the internet if you want to try fixing the problem permanently. I haven't verified this and I no longer have this radio:

Hi Pat, the earlier units needed R102 changed from a 100 ohm to a 39 ohm & a thermal pad placed under the board beneath D36 (main board). This is being implemented from manufacturing now.
The "unofficial fix" done here in service is to resolder all the TX/RX diodes with silver solder and add a 16V zener diode to the driver transistor (across C93).
A bulletin from home company states their fix is improved soldering practices on the driver transistor. This is being implemented from s/n 0505701 on.

Kevin B
ICOM America, Inc.