Topband: Using 80m 1/4 vertical on 160

[Richard (Rick) Karlquist]

> I though about using relays to switch in/out the top loading wires for
> 160m, but computed the voltage to be over 10 KV. Vacuum relays to handle
> that voltage are very expensive. Then there is the issue of protecting them
> from harsh WX.
>
> Ray,
> N6VR
>

I tried vacuum relays and they seemed to fail after
around 6 months.  After replacing them 4 or 5 times,
I changed to using a big contactor, modified as
described in QST May 2009, page 66 to increase the
voltage handling.  My modified relay has now been going strong
for 5 years without a problem.  It is mounted in a
plastic box to protect it from the weather.

Rick N6RK