On 18 Apr 97, Jerry K. Liley <k0gug@juno.com> wrote:
> Dear Jay,
> I see someone already told you about the "EASY" way to sink ground rods.
> The water method "really" works in Missouri. It takes more than a cup
> of water but a bucket full should do the job. I usually dig a small
> hole where the rod is going and pour a quart of water in the hole. That
> way you can keep the hole full and it will self- feed the water down
> along the ground rod. Don't get in too big of a hurry doing this job.
> Let the soil have time to soak up the moisture. Somewhere around the
> four or five foot depth, pull the ground rod all of the way out and fill
> the hole again. Go get a cup or coffee or a soda and let it soak for 10
> or 15 minutes. From that point on, you will not need anymore water. I
> have found the need to take a hammer and drive in the last two feet
> simply because I could not get enough pressure on the rod by hand. Wear
> some gloves because blisters will appear quickly and be cautious when
> pushing the rod in on top of the water else it will squirt back at you
> with vigor.
Question and comment re ground rod insertion:
Comment - I've read that the "water method" is not a good idea
because the soil is not in tight contact with the rod, and the
decreased surface area of contact increases the electrical
resistance, diminshing the rod's effectiveness.
Question(s) - Are these post hole drivers available at Home Depot
type stores? We have a lot of shale down at about the 4-5 ft level.
Any tips how to get through it? I've used the sledge hammer method in
the past, and sometimes can manage to break through, other times not.
73 Barry
--
Barry Kutner, W2UP Internet: w2up@op.net
Newtown, PA FRC alternate: barry@w2up.wells.com
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