HEATHKIT 453-17 Preselector Shaft Pulleys Set Screw Collar HW-101

( Brand: Heathkit ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 453-17 ), ( Compatible Brand: For Heathkit ), ( Type: Control Shaft ), ( Band: Hf ), ( To Fit: Ham Radio Transceiver ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )

Review HEATHKIT Preselector #453-17 Shaft Pulleys And Set screw Collar

The Heathkit 453-17 HW-101 Preselector Shaft Pulley Set-Screw Collar is a meticulously crafted, high-performance mechanical component designed to enhance the precision and reliability of vintage and modern radio frequency (RF) systems, particularly those utilizing rotary preselector tuning mechanisms. This set features a robust, machined aluminum shaft pulley assembly, engineered to deliver smooth, low-friction operation while maintaining exceptional durability under continuous use. The pulley itself is precision-cut with a series of evenly spaced grooves, ensuring optimal engagement with the drive belt or cable, thereby minimizing slippage and maximizing torque transfer for accurate tuning adjustments. At the core of this assembly is a set-screw collar, a critical feature that secures the pulley firmly onto the shaft, preventing axial movement and ensuring consistent alignment during operation. The collar s threaded design allows for precise tightening, accommodating variations in shaft diameter while providing a snug, vibration-resistant fit. This component is particularly well-suited for applications in amateur radio equipment, shortwave receivers, and other RF devices where fine-tuned mechanical precision is essential. Whether integrated into a classic Heathkit receiver or a restored vintage radio, the HW-101 pulley set-screw collar assembly exemplifies the brand s legacy of quality engineering, offering both enthusiasts and professionals a reliable solution for achieving smooth, responsive tuning performance. Its robust construction and attention to detail make it an indispensable part of any RF system requiring dependable mechanical tuning components.

The Heathkit 453-17 HW-101 Preselector Shaft Pulley Set-Screw Collar is a specialized component designed for vintage Heathkit radios, particularly those with a preselector tuning mechanism. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

---

1. **Compatibility and Functionality:** This part is specifically engineered for Heathkit radios that feature a preselector tuning system, such as the HW-101 series. It ensures proper operation of the preselector mechanism, which allows the user to manually select individual tuning stages for precise frequency adjustment. This can be particularly useful for restoring or maintaining the performance of these radios.

2. **Authentic Restoration:** For collectors or enthusiasts restoring vintage Heathkit radios, using original or high-quality reproduction parts like this pulley set ensures the radio operates as it was intended. This enhances the authenticity of the restoration project and preserves the historical integrity of the device.

3. **Durability and Quality:** Heathkit parts, even reproduction ones, are generally built to withstand regular use. The materials and construction are designed to be robust, reducing the likelihood of premature wear or failure, especially if the part is well-maintained.

4. **Ease of Installation:** Since this is a direct replacement part, it should fit seamlessly into the existing mechanism without requiring significant modifications. This makes the installation process straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills or experience in radio repair.

5. **Availability of Support:** Heathkit, even in its modern iterations, provides resources for those working on vintage equipment. This includes manuals, forums, and customer support that can assist with installation or troubleshooting, which can be invaluable for beginners or those unfamiliar with the specific model.

---

1. **Limited Usefulness for Non-Heathkit Radios:** This part is exclusively designed for Heathkit radios with a preselector system. If you are working on a different brand or model of radio, this component will not be compatible, rendering it useless for your project.

2. **Potential for Obsolescence:** Heathkit radios, particularly older models, are no longer in mass production. While this part may be available now, long-term availability cannot be guaranteed. If you are restoring a radio that is not commonly worked on, sourcing replacement parts in the future could become difficult.

3. **Cost Relative to Value:** For enthusiasts or collectors, the cost of this part may seem high, especially if the radio itself is not extremely valuable. If the radio is not a prized collectible, the expense of replacing individual components like this pulley set might not be justified.

4. **Skill Dependency:** While the installation is relatively straightforward, it may still require some mechanical aptitude. If the user lacks experience with radio repair or basic tool usage, they might struggle with the process, potentially leading to further damage or incorrect installation.

5. **Mixed Quality Perception:** Some users report that reproduction parts, even from reputable brands like Heathkit, may not match the quality or longevity of original components. This could lead to premature wear or failure, necessitating future replacements and adding to the overall cost.

---

The Heathkit 453-17 HW-101 Preselector Shaft Pulley Set-Screw Collar is a valuable component for restoring or maintaining vintage Heathkit radios equipped with a preselector tuning system. Its compatibility, durability, and ease of installation make it a practical choice for those working on these specific models. However, its limited applicability to non-Heathkit radios, potential long-term availability issues, and the cost relative to the radio s value must be carefully considered. Additionally, the skill level required for installation and the perceived quality of reproduction parts are factors that could influence the decision.

---

If you are restoring or repairing a Heathkit radio that requires this specific part such as an HW-101 series and you have the budget and interest in preserving the radio s authenticity, then purchasing this pulley set is a worthwhile investment. Ensure that you verify the exact model and compatibility of your radio with the part before making the purchase to avoid unnecessary expenses.

For those who are not experienced in radio repair, consider seeking guidance from forums, manuals, or professionals to ensure proper installation. If the radio is not a significant collectible and the cost of the part seems disproportionate to its value, weigh the long-term benefits against the immediate expense. Alternatively, if you are working on a non-Heathkit radio, this part will not be useful, and you should focus on compatible components for your specific model.

Details:

DE W2QU, #453-17 PRESELECTOR SHAFT W/PULLEYS. FROM A HW-101 PARTS RIG.

part #: 45317 prices

• $11.95-$25.95

specifications hamamateuradio:

• brand: Heathkit
• mpn: 453-17
• compatible brand: For Heathkit
• type: Control Shaft
• band: Hf
• to fit: Ham Radio Transceiver
• country of origin: United States

general hamamateuradio:

• condition: Used
• Radio Communication > Ham, Amateur Radio > Other Ham Radio Equipment

offer hamamateuradio:

• availability: In Stock
• quantity: 1
• started: February 11, 2026
• sold: 0
• options: Ship-to-home

returns hamamateuradio:

• policy: No Returns

seller hamamateuradio:

• # reviews: 847
• city: Calabash, North Carolina
• rating: 100.0%

shipping hamamateuradio:

• class: Standard
• transit: 3-9 Days
• cost: $11.05
• type: Calculated
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• carrier: USPS

payments hamamateuradio:

• wallet: Google-pay
• credit card: Mastercard
• other

Heathkit 453-17 Is Similar To:

• 8075mc1f Amphenol Connector 2501f Heathkit 432-1 Screw Switchcraft (28% similar) Also fits static jet 30 microphones, harp microphones, and similar types...(March 4th, 2015)
• Ar-1 Heathkit Receiver With Manual (32.8% similar) Please scroll down the page to see larger pictures. I have sold and shipped electronic equipment tubes to over 70 countries. They were available from Heathkit 1949 to the AR-1 was Heathkit first shortwave receiver and these are rare radios. Untitled document Heathkit AR-1 receiver with manual, ...(February 21st, 2018)
• Dx-40 Heathkit Trannsmitter Working With (31.1% similar) Heathkit DX-40 transmitter with CFO comes a copied manual working condition. Fast shipping...(September 24th, 2017)
• Gd-1 Heathkit Grid Dip Meter Untested And Sold For Parts Or (38.3% similar) Sold as is, not tested, for parts only...(September 30th, 2018)
• Hd-1418 Heathkit Active Audio Filter Manual And Power Pack (34.3% similar) A few scuffs on top. Our preferred shipping service is USPS. Comes with 12 volt power pack and original manual. See photos.: Heathkit active audio filter HD just taken out of service...(October 21st, 2018)
• Hd-1530 Heathkit Vintage Decoder Kit Unassembled And Complete (39.2% similar) New old stock vintage Heathkit un assembled model HD-1530TOUCH-TONE decoder box has been opened and includes the original Heathkit manual all parts...(July 30th, 2018)
• Hd-8999 Heathkit Cw Keyboard With (33% similar) ...(September 25th, 2017)
• Cheyenne Mt-1 Heathkit Ham Radio Transmitter With Mic Untested Amateur (31.6% similar) Power supply not included comes as pictured with mic. Cosmetically looks great. No power cable. I have included pictures for a look inside which looks great. I bought this in a estate sale and is untested...(September 22nd, 2016)
• Hm-2103 Heathkit Wattmeter Tested And Working Perfectly (30.7% similar) Nice condition. See picture of it working with my drake. Sr watt meter not included. Comes with copy of manual. Heath HM 2103 dummy load watt meter tested and calibrated works perfectly 200 and 1000 watt ranges overload indicator new battery dated second photo shows it on 200 watt scale third photo ...(May 8th, 2016)
• Hp-23 Heathkit Vintage Power Supply With Fused Plug (39.1% similar) Vintage Heathkit hp 23 power supply in enclosure with fused plug. This has not been tested hence being sold as not working...(May 15th, 2016)
• Ioa-4510-1 Heathkit Heath Kit Accessory Calibrator Model With Instruction Manual (35.8% similar) This instrument is also useful as a bench frequency standard because of the fast rise time and four available frequencies. Item offered is a used Heathkit accessory calibrator for oscilloscopes, model IOS includes instruction assembly manual and alligator clip test lead. Item is sold as is so please...(October 18th, 2016)