View Single Post
  #4   Report Post  
Old November 29th 09, 02:36 AM posted to rec.radio.amateur.antenna
Gary[_5_] Gary[_5_] is offline
external usenet poster
 
First recorded activity by RadioBanter: Jun 2009
Posts: 26
Default Antenna Launcher

On Nov 28, 10:45�am, John Ferrell wrote:
On Fri, 27 Nov 2009 17:13:50 -0800 (PST), Gary
wrote:





On Nov 27, 11:27?am, John Ferrell wrote:
There is an artical by W4SSY in the March 2009 QST Magazine. I am
planning to duplicate it for use at my QTH. I am interested in any
comments, especially from anyone who may have already built one.


My available trees may be about 80 feet so that is my minimum
expectations!


There is a lot of Google information available but I am trying to
focus on this example.


John Ferrell W8CCW


Hi John, �I have not built one yet but am contemplating. �Mine will
use a Rain Bird 1" Auto Sprinkler Valve, electrically actuated (24 VAC
or DC). �I plan to use a Harbor Freigth 5 in one power source for the
air compressor, the pressure gage, and the 24 VAC actuator supply.
The power source is $60-$90 depending on the sale going on, it is also
handy for lots of other stuff.


This will be my first shot because I have this available. �As far as
the PVC, tire valve, fishing reel, ect. don't have that much
experience. �As far as line, I have had one break on me after a nice
launch with a sling shot. �Make sure your line is of good quality.
Happy launching.


Gary N4AST


I bought most of the supplies last night at Home Depot. The Orbit
sprinkler valve was only about $12. It is an inline type valve like
the one in the artical. I was thinking I would use a long piece of
pipe as the accumulator but after doing the math I have decided to go
back and get a piece of 3 inch pipe to use. BTW, the cement and primer
is available in a single package for about $6.50. I am a little
concerned about the loose fit of the projectile in the 1-1/2 inch
barrel.

I will report back as I continue.
John Ferrell W8CCW- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


I am sure you saw when Goggling that many use a Tennis ball with
pennies stuffed inside for weigth. That is what I intend to try, will
take a bit larger barrel than the one in the article. The tennis ball
will cause less damage if it comes down on a car window, or someones
head! Be interested to hear how yours works.

Gary N4AST