[TowerTalk] Element caps summary

[Patrick Barkey]

I posted this question a couple of days ago:

>> Does anyone know of a source for vinyl element 
>> caps?  I need a bunch (200+) for half inch 
>> tubing ends.

>> I also need a source for boom caps for 2 and 
>>3 inch booms. 

I got a *ton* of responses to this question.  There were
three categories of responses that dominated:

1.  McMaster-Carr

The www.mcmastercarr.com site had element caps up to
2 inches ID.  Reasonable prices for the quantities I needed.
I shoulda known.

2.  caplugs.com

I never heard of this, but if you need large quantities of
caps (1000 and up), www.capplugs.com has it.  They
also give out free samples

3.  Don't use caps

I had some responses that caused me to think about why I
even wanted to use caps in the first place.  I heard a number
of stories of water getting into booms, elements, etc. with
assorted headaches for weight, corrosion, etc.

I used caps to keep water out, but given that it always gets
in somehow, I suppose it might be best to go without them.

As an alternative to caps, some of you suggested (especially
for booms) that I use aluminum screen and a large hose clamp
to keep the critters out but let the moisture escape.

Thanks for the input.  Not sure if these suggestions will make
me any louder to EU or not, but it certainly gives me something
to do until we get some decent antenna weather again!

   - Pat
     N9RV

------

Responses:

Try http://www.caplugs.com <Users/tomnxa/bookmark.htm>        
They have 
a wide assortment of  plugs and caps that I am sure you will find

suitable for your use.  They may be able to direct you to a
distributor 
depending on your location. Request a catalog to get the exact
type of 
cap you are looking for.  Very friendly and cooperative company
to deal 
with.  It's worth a try. Hope this helps.

------

For small tubing such as 1-inch or less, go to your local ACE
Hardware and
look for the plastic caps they put on the legs of wooden chairs,
walking
canes, etc.  I use these for end caps on yagi elements.  Very
inexpensive
and effective.

-----

...order your caps from McMaster Carr...most are sold in quanties
of 
100 and they have most popular sizes...they are very reasonable
in cost 
till you get to the very large ones like 2 inch.  You can order
on line at 
http://www.mcmaster-carr.com .

------

Try www.caplugs.com  I got some samples from them years ago.

------

The Home Depot has an item called a screw protector which is such
a cap and
they come in various sizes, usually smaller though.

------

Try Hydraulic Fitting supply houses..theytuse the caps over the 
raw threads of hydraulic fittings...

------

I remember seeing an ad for such items in a "mail in pack"
years ago so I know there are such companies.  Did you
look in the EEM directory?  Try your library.

------

I have used a 3/4 inch long dab of black sicilone
sealer, cheaper (in the calking tube) and lasts
a lot longer, the black reduces UV penatratin.
(Never had one fall out in  20+ years)
  I have also used the RED sicilocone gasket
maker compouond.
 (seems more weather resistant) 
 
------

I find that cutting a piece of regular aluminum window screen, 
forming it around a cylinder of the proper diameter (the ID of
your element, boom, etc.) and RTVing it in is the best way to go. 
Keeps out the insects, and the boom or element can breathe, so
plastic caps dont fall off as the temp and pressure vary.  It also
allows water to drain out before it can build up.  I once poured a
quart or so of water out of the boom of a hygain 155!!

Its too cold to do antenna work anyway...

------

Search 'CAPLUG'.

------

Why do you need caps?  To make sure the water that gets in stays
in?

Let the water out and there will be less corrosion.

------





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