While wrapping butyl tape on the terminals of my OCF atop a ladder yesterday, I noticed the 20m aluminum dipole (attached same mast) a few feet below. The green, polypropylene block clamps holding the 1" elements had a white film. After some wiping & scraping, it was apparent it goes deeper. I’m getting tired of carrying the ladder up to the roof.
I really thought my 20m dipole was a forever antenna. Used a 1/4" aluminum boom plate w/ stainless hardware. UV resistant line to hold-up each element to ‘stop the droop’.
Seems I did not realize the polypropylene pipe clamps holding the 1" OD elements were made for indoor use. I can likely replace them without taking antenna down but only to do it again in 5-6 years? Make new ones by drilling a 1" hole in a nylon block and cut my own pipe clamps? Do-able I suppose.
What are people’s experience with the liquid solutions sold for UV protection? Is that a waste? I can surely get another Winter out of these clamps but I thought I was set for far longer.
I really thought my 20m dipole was a forever antenna. Used a 1/4" aluminum boom plate w/ stainless hardware. UV resistant line to hold-up each element to ‘stop the droop’.
Seems I did not realize the polypropylene pipe clamps holding the 1" OD elements were made for indoor use. I can likely replace them without taking antenna down but only to do it again in 5-6 years? Make new ones by drilling a 1" hole in a nylon block and cut my own pipe clamps? Do-able I suppose.
What are people’s experience with the liquid solutions sold for UV protection? Is that a waste? I can surely get another Winter out of these clamps but I thought I was set for far longer.
