The Yaesu FT-60 is one of the rare radio which has attracted mainly positive reviews (FT-2900 is another one). In addition to all the good things about this radio, the following features not often mentioned were on my selection list:

  • Mechanical on/off switch, when the radio if off, it is off!
  • Real squelch and volume knobs;
  • strong belt clip;
  • AA batteries capable, opening up many options in the future.

The only draw back I saw with a ageing FT-60, was that the display screen wasn’t recessed into the body of the radio and was easily scratched. I have seen quite a few examples around. I wear my radios on the belt and it often rubs on things around me.

I elected to make and install a screen border, copying the VX-6 radio set-up. I used the lid of a food dip container as they are easy to work with. They are also soft, allowing them to match the radio contour. Choose wisely, you’ll have to eat it first!

I made a cardboard model and cutout the lid as required.

Using a leather punch I punched 4 holes and cut in between using a hobby knife with the plastic piece secured in a drill vice.

I have used Scotch 3M mounting tapes for years on many projects. Easy to use, resist to ambient heat/cold/humidity, is elastic, but the best, peels out without trace, even after few years. I’ve only spread the tape in a narrow section around the frame to ensure the tape would only attach to the metal case of the radio, not the actual display.

Finally installed. Can be easily removed.

BTW, I have in the past used a leather case with a see-through window that came with the radio. After a couple of years use, the friction between the display and the see-through windows had scratched the display.