I have rebuilt a W2AU balun for much the same reasons.

Like the referenced article, I removed the dual use of the electrical
connection for support of the dipole wires.

An addition, I changed the coax connector for an N-type for a water
resistant cable connection.

Having said that, I don't use it much, it is a "voltage balun" and
most of my applications are better suited to a "current balun".

Owen
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