Topband: TitanexV80s and V80

[WA2MBM at aol.com]

There appears to be more than one person (myself) who is having problems with the Titanex V80 Antenna Tuner.  I purchased the Ttianex V80S and the V80 antenna tuner with the hopes of having an antenna for 160 and 80 meters.

I did purchase the antenna from Jay at Array Solutions, and he has been very helpful, but there are some inherent problems with the antenna and tuner.  Relative to the antenna, the two sets of guy wires supplied are extremely thin, relative to the thickness, it approximates twelve guage wire, While it may hold, I purchased approximtely 250 feet of the small phillystran with end kits to replace what appeared the undersized guys.  Additional investment of $180.00.  Also the three stakes that are supplied are only about two feet long, and I was advised by Jay to replace these with longer stakes.  Jay did mention that another antenna had come down because the stakes had pulled out during a wind-storm.  

Once the antenna was up it was an excellent performer on 80 meters.  Relative to the V80 antenna tuner, you must build your own switch box to control the three relays.  My problem with the antenna tuner is that I cannot get the SWR on 160 mtrs. below 4 to 1.  I discussed this with Jay who advised me to add another tap at the relay (hot end) of the coil so I could tap the coil in two places to achieve resonance.  I ended buying the Array Solutions Antenna tuner which is about double the price of the V80 antenna tuner.  Hopefully, I will be able to return the Titanex V80 for a refund.
Also, the size of the V80 coil is extremely small and difficult to work with in the field.  You need to solder the tap to the coil in a small confined place and this is extremely difficult for those of us who live in colder climates.
Those of you contemplating the purchase of the Titanex product may want to perform your due diligence before you purchase them.  I have a problem purchasing a $500 tuner from Titanex with poor instructions and still having to make modifications to the product.

Any suggestions.

73's

Greg