[Amps] Input Matching for 8877 on 2m

[David Smith]

I'm building an 8877 amp for 2m - K1AGB grounded-grid stripline design - and
I'm having problems with the proposed input matching circuit (which is the
same as for the more popular W6PO design).

The original circuit uses a T type match with a blocking cap and variable
inductor with a "white slug" in series with the input, then a variable cap
to ground, then a fixed inductance to the cathode of the 8877.  I can't find
a source for the variable inductor, so I wonder if anyone can suggest
alternatives?

For example, can I change the circuit values and use a variable cap in place
of the variable inductor?  Can anyone point me to a suitable site with info
on calculating the values for such a matching circuit.  According to the
article, the 8877 input is equivalent to 54 ohms in parallel with 26 pF.

Thanks,
David Smith
VK3HZ