Pros:
1) Clean profile as opposed to a guyed tower (a big plus for the XYL)
2) Can crank down before bad weather (better survival chances for antennas
at 20' instead of 60')
3) If the base allows it, tilting over a crank-up makes tower work very easy
and safe
4) Once the foundation is in, it goes up very fast
Cons:
1) Requires substantial foundation (same for any free standing tower) as
opposed to guyed tower (small crank-ups using Wonder Posts are an exception)
2) Generally less loading allowed as compared to other tower types
3) Requires periodic cable replacement
4) More mechanically complex than other tower types- more potential points
of trouble
5) Diminished ability for side mounting antennas
6) Since it is one unit as opposed to sections, it is very heavy to deal
with (the aluminum models are an exception to this)
7) Care must be used if you plan to use the tower to support a wire antenna-
the force from the wire antenna can easily pull smaller crank-ups out of
plumb
If cost is a concern, look for a used tower- especially one with a wonder
post (large steel post with fins that goes in the ground to support the
tower instead of concrete. It is common to find 40' towers with a wonder
post for $300 to $500.
If you're looking for a crank-up tower to put a lot of aluminum on, look for
a used Tri-Ex LM-354HD tower. Depending on the date of manufacture, the max
load is between 15 and 60 square feet at 70 MPH. I've got a LM-354HDSP
(electric winch for raising and positive pull down cable). Mine is rated at
50 square feet at 70 MPH.
73,
Doug
K4DDR
_______________________________________________
See: http://www.mscomputer.com for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless Weather
Stations", and lot's more. Call Toll Free, 1-800-333-9041 with any questions
and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.
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