[Towertalk] Re: taping your joint - Thanks

[K7LXC@aol.com]

In a message dated 4/1/02 7:13:08 AM Pacific Standard Time, 
k4oj@tampabay.rr.com writes:

> so, you are saying that a wrap of tape coated with Scotchkote to seal it
>  followed by a UV shielding protective wrap of 88 is overkill, now?

    Umm...not exactly. ScotchKote is a coating designed for *buried* joints 
and it'll dry and flake off over time so I don't recommend its use as a 
top-coat either.

    Electrical tape and vapor wrap are the two primary materials I recommend 
for electrical joint weatherproofing. You can use them in any order you want 
AS LONG AS YOU DON'T PUT COAXSEAL DIRECTLY ON ANY CONNECTORS! Commercial 
vapor wrap OTOH can be applied right on connectors because, unlike CoaxSeal, 
it CAN be removed. 

    My previous comments had to do with the apparent unsuitability of Liquid 
Electrical Tape as a top coating; likewise with ScotchKote. So I'm suggesting 
that using a top layer of tape is as good as anything and better than most 
other materials. 

    Some commercial installers use clear acrylic spray paint as a top 
coating. I don't have any longterm outdoor experience with it but it might be 
worth a try. 

    You run the White Clan Outdoor Destruction Lab with your Florida station 
- what's your experience.

    And thank you for asking about taping my joint. 

Cheers,
Steve     K7LXC
TOWER TECH -
Professional tower services for industry and amateurs