Hi all connection Goopers!
I agree with K7LXC's comments on the differences between Scotchkote and
Liquid Tape.
Specifically, the Scothkote is made for waterproofing completely immersed
connections, whether they be underwater or underground. Hence, it doesn't
need UV resistance for its intended use.
I've seen the UV attack the Scotchkote, but I was taught to use it in a
manner that significantly reduces the chance for UV degradation to cause
moisture to leak into the connection.
This is the topic of another post, back in the TT archive.
Everybody has their favorite method. Here's mine.
For connections that can be sealed with a spiral wrap of electrical tape,
like two pieces of coax with a barrel connector:
Assemble the connection and apply a light to medium coating of Scothkote.
Allow the coating to dry to a slightly tacky surface. Do not let it
completely dry to a non-tacky surface. The coating should extend past the
connection onto the jacket for at least 1".
Wrap your 33+ or 88 over the connection using an overlap that is 1/2 the
width of the tape. Pull tight when going over the steps in the connection
to prevent wrinkling.
Cut the tape with a knife or razor blade, Don't pull it till it breaks.
Gently lay down the cut end so that it doesn't have a great deal of
tension.
Coat again with Scotchkote, just for good measure.
I had 4 such connections up for 10 years at my old qth, 8 miles from the
ocean. I had to cut the tape with a razor blade to get it off, but the
connecting surfaces were still shiny brite.
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