Sorry Hossfly but NEVER did I indicate reluctance to take advice, or forsake safety.

(I became a target target ?, No way, everyone responding was great !!! )

Very pleased with all reponses, nice to have a place to go where I can get so much good info (LHS only had car guys). I posted looking for practical advice on value of the old radio and immediately everyone helped me avoid a serious problem. Clearly the one theme that was in everyone's response was the need for safety, freq. control - so not everything has changed in last 20yrs.

Thanks to you for your clarification ( 20k vs 40 k).

Also thanks for your input on the Spektrum.

I just have not the experience to form an opinion on which radios have best value. I value the opinons of those with all the flying experience much more than manfacturers hype. RCU has so much info - there must be "favorite radio" thread...