Re: [TowerTalk] Crank-up won't crank

[Colburn <kd4e@arrl.net>]

Mike Gilmer wrote:
> > I went outside Wednesday evening to crank down my new
> > U.S. Tower 55 ft. tower because of the high winds. It
> > wouldn't crank down or up. Not an inch. I had
> > previously lowered and raised it on several occasions
> > without incident.

I am no tower expert but if deemed safe, prior to forceably dragging the 
thing down, I'd see if I can get someone to hose every contact surface 
down with a penetrating lubricant spray. (If unsafe to climb then a 
bucket truck could provide the necessary access.)

If there is an apparent bend in the tower the bucket-person could try to 
pull the tower back into line.  (Pulling a bit too far to straighten it 
and then allowing it to center itself may work as a long-term fix.)

The person on the bucket truck might also try rocking the thing very 
gently as I tried to lower it.

Just a thought ... prior to destroying the thing by dragging it down 
against a bend and/or absent appropriate lubrication.

Not-an-expert-just-guessing-ymmv ... 73, doc kd4e

_______________________________________________

See: http://www.mscomputer.com  for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless Weather Stations", and lot's more.  Call Toll Free, 1-800-333-9041 with any questions and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.

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