codan 7727 (b) ssb transceiver

Yep they are a good old unit and if it's got the VKS 4wd channels fitted then you've scored well.

For quality voice only comms, some of the older units can clearly out-perform the latest units........... the main issue with older units IMO is to be wary of putting $ into them, when and if they need repair - probably pay to trade up - but it could plug on happily for ages.

This might be of interest to you
Site Link

As mentioned above, the older radios still work well. But re channeling them is expensive. Many have coils and slugs that have deteoriated over time and are impossible to replace, like many other bits.
You can easily spend $50-100 per required channel, and still have an unreliable and half functional radio.
Half functional ?
Modern radios have scan, selcall and telcall. Modern aerials often have a pre amp in them. (for scanning sensitivity)
Older radios generally have non of these facilities.
They are on one channel at a time (too bad if your mate calls you elsewhere)
No selcall. You can't "wake a base up" if you have an emergency.
No telcall. ET can't phone home.

Hi Dave.
You say that you have a manual whip. Is there any writing on it at the tap points? This will give an idea on what frequencies / channels you have.
VKS737 frequencies can be found at www.vks737.on.net/
RFDS frequencies can be found at www.flyingdoctor.net/hfradio.htm
Note that the RFDS had more frequencies when your radio was younger so some may no longer be applicable.
You could also ask the previous owner.

Dave, they appear to be RFDS freqs with some no longer in use.