[TowerTalk] using trees to anchor end(s) of wire antennas

[Eric Scace K3NA]

These same bolts can be obtained with a forged eye.  (For those unfamiliar with this term, a "forged eye" is an eye that is cast as
a solid piece of metal.  A "formed eye" is one where a rod is simply bent around in a circle to form the eye.  A formed eye carries
the risk of de-forming and pulling open under load; a forged eye is the safer choice.)  An adjustable wrench (spanner) will help
rotate the bolt while it enters the tree.  Be sure to use an adequate length to penetrate the bark and enter the core of the tree.

As the tree grows, the eye bolt can be backed out a couple of turns to avoid having the tree swallow up the bolt.  If the
installation is not easily accessible, use a long bolt and leave a generous amount outside the tree.

Try to install the bolt in a part of the tree away from branches, hollows, etc, so that the bolt screws into undisturbed wood that
is less likely to flex seriously.

A pulley (block) with a swivel head can be fastened directly to the forged eye.  The swivel head will allow the pulley to align to
the rope properly.  An example is a Harken 166; see:
http://harkenstore.com/uniface.urd/scpdinw1.ShowProd?B4RPMEB9Y95NXC

-----Original Message-----
From: towertalk-bounces at contesting.com
[mailto:towertalk-bounces at contesting.com]On Behalf Of Tim Makins, EI8IC
Sent: 2003 September 12 Friday 04:41
To: TowerTalk
Subject: Re: [TowerTalk] using trees to anchor end(s) of wire antennas


I think that the kindest way (to the tree) to fasten an antenna support is
not to wrap rope or wire around it, but instead to use a 4" or 6" coachbolt
screwed into the trunk, at 90 degrees to the direction of pull.

A 'coachbolt' is a large wood screw with a 4 or 6 sided bolt-head rather
than a slotted head for a screwdriver.

73s Tim EI8IC
www.qsl.net/ei8ic/
The home of the 'Global Overlay Mapper'
The only source for IOTA maps.

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See: http://www.mscomputer.com  for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless Weather Stations", and lot's more.  Call Toll Free,
1-800-333-9041 with any questions and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.

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