Yaesu VX-170 MARS/CAPS Mod

[kd7nmn]

I would like to do the MARS/CAPS mod on my radio and need to know if I'm looking at what I should be here. I've heard conflicting stories on modding for MARS/CAPS so I will check legality before I continue. Here are the directions and the pictures.

To get open band tx & Rx from 137MHz to 174MHz follow the procedures.

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Remove the caution seal( it is under the battery place)
*

Find the two zero ohm resistor in the mid point between the two connector near the pcb gap, some times the upper resistor will be opened
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Remove the two resistance
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Put back the caution seal and the battery
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press and hold the ptt switch and lamp switch and switch on the radio
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The radio will write SETRST on the lcd
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Rotate the dial knob to ALLRST and press F
*

The radio modified

http://www.theprepared.com/images/mods/yaesu/vx170/vx-120_trx_mod.jpg

http://www.theprepared.com/images/mods/yaesu/vx170/3226_Vx-170.jpg

In this picture I circled what I think they are talking about.
http://www.theprepared.com/images/mods/yaesu/vx170/3226_Vx-170cir.jpg

[W0LPQ]

Is this radio on the NTIA approved list for CAP? Have you talked to the local MARS officials? Do you have a MARS license? If so, they will provide you with the info.

Bill, W0LPQ/9

[ka5piu]

Quote[/b] (W0LPQ @ June 04 2007,15:08)]Is this radio on the NTIA approved list for CAP? #Have you talked to the local MARS officials? #Do you have a MARS license? #If so, they will provide you with the info.

Bill, W0LPQ/9
Hello.

https://ntc.cap.af.mil/comm/equipment/equipment.cfm
This list shows some analog radios, but unless you already have a legacy CEOI do not bother.
And, yes, MARS has all the info on making the mods.
Simply modding a radio, in and of itself, although not against the law, may not be a good idea.
Use of this radio is not legal in commercial contexts, such as fire and SAR.
CAP has spent well over $ 2 millon replacing ham rigs with both new and used commercial and military radios.
Narrow band with a great push on P25 digital.
Amateur radio is no longer permitted to be used for CAP.