Topband: Spitfire question

[Eduardo Araujo]

Hello Dear Topbanders,
                                          I had the chance to test the Spitfire antenna during the CQWWSSB. 

I installed it to cover initially one direction.
I had no problem to tune the elements to 1840 using a source signal from the back. Reflector ended at 1855 and 
director 2050, both tuned to max attenuation to the back as suggested by designers.
At first I was delighted because I got  f/b at ground level of more than 20db across 25 Kc but surprise came when I
could not notice any improvement in the front gain switching on/off the elements to medium distances (Brazil) or long 
distance like Europe where it was pointed to (and same line of Brazil).
I measured FS at 300 mts at ground level and I only detect 1db maximun change
Reading ON4UN book, It looks like because of its configuration, the main lobe is shifted upward a bit, so I could
think that because of that I measured very little at ground level but not noticing any detectable change at
Brazil (3000Km) nor Europe (>10000Km) it really makes me wonder if it is working at all.
Before changing the project to other direction, I would like to hear your opinion and or suggestions.
Many thanks in advance.... Eddie, LU2DKT