I've had 2 since 1992, both manufactured around the same time. The one I
have now is S/N 30900515. So I assume the one you are looking at is a bit
older. I did just buy a TS-2000 at Dayton to replace it, a difficult
decision. Both 450's have been rock solid and problem free. The only thing
to worry about, and it's not a major issue, is the battery backup. Life
expectancy is probably around 10-15 years (my second radio's lasted 12
years) and regardless of what people say, it's no easy task for the average
'Joe' to replace it. Certainly with the right tools, steady hands and good
eyes, you can do it.
It may be an older radio, but I think it's one of the better ones.


"K. Hastings" wrote in message
...
I'm looking at a used TS-450S with Serial Number 30300519 that seems in
very
good shape.

Can you tell me:

(1) What is the likely date of manufacture of this rig? I'm hoping to
avoid
an early production unit that may have some inherent weaknesses...
(2) What are likely problems that this radio has experienced over the
years
that I should watch out for?

Thanks 73 Kevin VE9XYZ



PS (I asked this question over the weekend and misspelled TS-450S - sorry
about that; It's the TS-450S that I'm asking about)