Topband: 160 metre antenna.

[Greg - ZL3IX]

>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.

Hi Bob,

I suggest you buy a cheap child's plastic bucket and invert it over the 
inductor.  Rain will definitely make it deteriorate.  Spray the bucket with 
paint to make it withstand the UV a bit longer.  You can still make a hole 
for the cap hat support, and seal it with silicone.

73, Greg, ZL3IX