In a message dated 7/30/02 1:21:37 PM Pacific Daylight Time, n2mg@eham.net
writes:
> I am considering the use of pin shackles in my guying
> system and am wondering if anyone has any info to
> offer regarding the quality/durability of those one
> can purchase from Lowes/HomeDepot etc. I'm concerned
> that they will end up rusting/corroding severely in a
> short time (even though they "look" galvanized).
Buy one and leave it out in the backyard for a couple of months and see
what happens. If it really rusts, chuck it over the fence.
Generally shackles/clevises aren't the weak links in the chain so some
surface rust won't hurt anything. If you're really concerned, get one the
next size up. A good rule of thumb for shackle size is to double the wire
size; i.e. 3/16" EHS uses a 3/8" shackle.
I've found virtually all shackles useful - even the cheap Chinese ones -
and haven't had any reason not to use them.
Cheers,
Steve K7LXC
TOWER TECH -
Professional tower services for commercial and amateur
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