Topband: suitable wire for top loading wires?

[K9AY]

In my opinion, the ideal top loading wire is stainless steel wire rope. The 
smallest common size is 3/32" (or metric equivalent), which has a rated 
breaking strength around 900 lb. A good local hardware store can order it, 
or you can get it through an industrial supply or sailboat shop.

Gary
K9AY



> Hi everyone.
> I have had my top loaded vertical  break on me again.
> The antenna is held up by a probably 70` eucalyptus tree,the top loading
> wires run away via insulators to pulleys and long elastic cords to take
> up execive movements during high winds.
> It has failed on me twice now after about 3 months .This time I used
> flexiweave  and this has broken.
> Would it be ok to use say galvanized wire for the top loading wire.
> This antenna has been a star performer in the recent CQ WW 160 SSB
> Contest, furthest was Georgia and cape Verde islands.and got across to
> Pennsylvania,but he couldn't confirm my call sign due to local qrm.Not
> bad for 100w
> So I am reluctant to give this vertical up,Any suggestions from the team.
>
>                                          Regards
>                                                    Jon G8CCL