In a message dated 7/8/01 4:06:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time, tfwagner@snet.net
writes:
> I have always heard that you SHOULD stretch electrical tape for
> all but the last turn or two. I use Scotch Tartan which I get for
> 50 cents a roll. I change things around enough that I don't want to
> pay $4 a roll for the Cadillac tape.
>
The trick to weatherproofing connectors is a function of the right tape
and the right technique. The right tape in my book is either Scotch 33+ or 88.
You DO stretch the tape as you're applying it. 33+ and 88 both conform
excellently and the stretching helps do this. If the joint is vertical, make
the final wrap UP. This will give you the proper overlap for shedding water
migrating down the cable. It's like the shingles on a roof - install them
(and the tape) backwards and you've got a perfect channel for directing water
right INTO your joint.
The last tip is to let the final wrap relax before applying it. If you
pull it tight, it'll "flag" in a short time. Let it relax and it won't flag
for a long time. A clean margin at the end of the tape is important also.
Telephone company installers used to use scissors but if you've got sharp
fingernails or a regular or razor knife - they'll work too.
Of course to do the 'bombproof' joint, you also apply a layer of vapor
wrap and then a couple more wraps of tape.
Cheers, Steve K7LXC
Tower Tech
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