In a message dated 12/1/01 1:56:07 PM Pacific Standard Time, nwtncc@iswt.com
writes:
> Ya know that rubber O-ring that should go in the connector at the rotator
> (the one that never gets included with the package) - I still had it in my
> pocket !!! OOoops ! Well after taking all the tape down, the connector
> basically was apart in my hand. After blowing out the moisture and
> reconnecting and testing rotation, all was well.
The good news about most current rotators is that they have a
quick-connect that goes to the rotator. The bad news is that they are very
difficult to waterproof due to their size and shape.
For best results, follow the normal steps for any coax joint below. The
most important step is the last one. This joint should be bomb-proof.
1. Apply two wraps of premium electrical tape (Scotch 33+ or 88).
2. Apply a layer of vapor-wrap material. Vapor-wrap is simply a butyl rubber
material that comes in rolls or sheets and does an excellent job of isolating
the joint from the elements. (Okay - you can use CoaxSeal for this. DO NOT
put CoaxSeal directly on connectors!)
3. Apply two or three layers of tape over the vapor-wrap.
4. When your joint will be running vertically, always apply the final layer
of tape in an UPWARD direction. This way the tape will overlap in such a way
that water will not be conducted into the tape laps. Tape wrapped downwards
will form little pockets that will not only trap the rain but will also
conduct it right into your joint.
5. After youâ??ve torn or cut the tape, do not stretch it when applying the
final few inches. Let the tape relax, then attach it. If you put it on under
tension, it will â??flagâ?? which is the technical name for that loose tape end
that is flapping around in the breeze.
6. Paint the whole joint with Liquid Electrical Tape or equivalent. That
joint should never fail. Don't use black material - you won't be able to see
what you've painted. Note: ScotchKote is meant for burial and will flake off
over time in an outdoor scenario.
Cheers,
Steve K7LXC
Tower Tech
List Sponsored by AN Wireless: AN Wireless handles Rohn tower systems,
Trylon Titan towers, coax, hardline and more. Also check out our self
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