Questions for Texas Star & Cobra 29 ltd dead key

No one can help you in text from a distance since obviously the dead key must be measured using the radio in question and a meter, into a purely resistive (nonreactive) load. You have already been told what the dead key should be, your next step is having the work done on the radio to achieve this. I would suggest having a switch added to go back to high for barefoot use since one should not be running the amplifier all the time and your top end power will be reduced if it stays in low all the time.

 

2 watts is a good number for this amplifier but if your radio is stock it will likely be twice that or more. While not as good as a real bench quality meter yours will be adequate for your needs, better if you use a dummy load instead of an antenna for more accurate readings. If you are talking about a ModVPlus it should have a variable control, without the V it will have a green button. If you do not wish to have the radio carrier altered you can run the amp either with the green button in or if the V model lower the control until the output is 1/3 to 1/4 the forward power you see with steady modulation applied.

http://www.cbtricks.com/Amp/txstar/mod_v_plus_mod_plus/index.htm

If you do not understand what to do asking more questions is counterproductive just take it to a real shop and have them explain it all while in operation so you can understand how to run it. Also if you need the carrier reduced they can do it for you. If you do not wish to modify the radio, using the green button or the variable should allow for operation without the final being heavily saturated to the point distortion or overheating is a problem. This assumes your antenna system is working properly.

 

Getting it benched by a respectable tech is the best way to go. This includes both your radio and the amp together.