Michael J queried:

Hi
I been looking for the tv push masts that I used to use for supporting
my dipoles when I was younger. I used to get the fifty foot one stick
a ten foot top section and guy for a decent 80 meter suport system.I
can find anything that is above thirty feet with the loss of tv
antennas to direct and cable . Any sources or other good ideas for
this. I really do not want to buy a tower for this espically as I had
used several for different antennas. Maybe someone has done some
groundwork on using steel or aluminium tubing? Thanks

--
Michael J

Hi Michael,

I've recently fabricated a 35' tilt-over mast from aluminum pipe but it
sounds like you're locked into using a push-up mast. Rohn used to make
push-up telescoping masts I see that now, Channelmaster
(http://www.channelmaster.com/) is making them. They produce 30, 40, and
50' models in both standard and heavy-duty versions:
http://www.pctinternational.com/chan...ounaccess.html. Lowes handles
Channelmaster.

Ideally, you'd want to get the antenna up at least a quarter-wavelength.
However, at 80m as an example, this is some 60' -- which will be problematic
with a push-up mast. Get the antenna up as high as you can manage. You'll
some assistance to erect the taller masts, and then you have a mast that is
only electro-galvanized steel -- which will rust out and then become an even
bigger problem to maintain or disassemble. At the very least, replace the
hardware with stainless steel (and use antiseize compound on the threads).
For antenna erection/mainenance, hang a good weatherproof pulley on the top
and use UV- and rot-resistant rope. McMaster-Carr
(http://www.mcmaster.com/) is a good source for these items.

Bryan WA7PRC