Topband: 160 metre antenna.

[robert briggs]

I am about to renew the top loading on my 160 meter vertical.Included in 
the loading is a 50uh edge wound inductor 3 1/2 inches diameter and 8 
inches long which will be positioned about 2 feet below the 12 foot 
diameter capacitance hat.The edge wound inductor has about 3/16 inch 
spacing between turns.I am worried what effect rain will have on this 
inductor while I am transmitting.Will accumulated water between turns 
have a detuning effect or even worse cause an electrical breakdown 
across the inductor.I have a plastic cover 12 inches long by 8 inches 
diameter which will I can place over the inductor to weather proof it 
all but I am worried about wind loading and even with a coat of enamel 
paint it will eventually deteriorate
I would appreciate some advice.
Good Dxing....Bob VK3ZL..