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Re: [TowerTalk] AB-105 Tower

To: <towertalk@contesting.com>
Subject: Re: [TowerTalk] AB-105 Tower
From: "Frank Donovan" <donovanf@erols.com>
Date: Fri, 3 Jun 2005 20:11:16 -0400
List-post: <mailto:towertalk@contesting.com>
Glenn,

AB-105 is arguably the best available tower for rotating
or fixed towers for serious DX and contest stations.

Because it breaks down for very compact shipping (its original
intended application), its also very desirable for shipment to
overseas destinations.

The value of AB-105 depends primarily on two factors:
   - the version of AB-105, and
   - its condition (rust, damage, missing parts, etc)

AB-105 was first manufactured in the 1940s.  This early
version can be identified by the part numbers stamped in
the components.  If there is no "A" in the part numbers 
(e.g., the 10 foot vertical legs would be marked G-4),
then you have the oldest version of AB-105.  If it is in
like new condition (unlikely unless its been regalvanized)
this older AB-105 is valued at aproximately $15 per foot.
If it is rusted, but otherwise undamaged, its value is 
approximately $10 per foot because of the added expense
for regalvanizing.   If it is damaged or there are missing
parts, the value is further reduced by the cost to fabricate
replacement parts.

The most recent production was designated AB-105C.
This version is significantly stronger than the early model
because of the heavier gauge steel used in the diagonal
members.  This is the version that I use for my three 
150 foot rotating towers.  You can identify this model
by the "A" in the part numbers (e.g., G-4A).   AB-105C
in like-new condition is valued at approximately $20 per
foot.  If it is rusted, its value is approximately $15 per foot.
If it is damaged or there are missing parts, the value is
further reduced by the cost to fabricate replacement parts.

There is a third version, often referred to as "Heavy Duty
AB-105."   Its correct designation is Trylon model 2400H.
This is the rarest and strongest version of AB-105 tower.
It was used K4JA for his stacked 4 element full sized
40 meter yagis on a 200 foot rotating tower.   This 
version is easily identified by the 1/2" diameter bolts
used in its construction.  In like new condition, this
tower is valued at $40 per foot.  If it is rusted, its value
is approximately $30 per foot. If it is damaged or there
are missing parts, the value is further reduced by the
cost to fabricate replacement parts.

You didn't mention the length of your sections (it comes
in 20, 10, 6, 5, 3 and 2 foot sections), so I estimated the
value per foot rather than per section.

73!
Frank
W3LPL
donovanf@erols.com


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