there is something that i think should be mentioned in this thread for the benefit of future readers/modders, and who knows, it might have happened to someone already.
schottky diodes are very sensitive, and can easily be damaged internally just by cutting the leads.
one should never "pre-cut" the leads before soldering them in the radio.
i was told that using a scissor type of cutter instead of the "dykes" style of wire cutter was a requirement.
i do not use one, i just use the "dykes". (not the right term, but you get what i am talking about)
the secret is to carefully bend the leads, put the diode in place, slightly bend the leads so the diode will stay put when you turn the radio over, and solder the diode in.
then, after the diode is soldered in place, gently cut the excess leads off, using only as much force as is required.
the idea is to "squeeze" the lead apart instead of "popping" it apart.
LC
