[TowerTalk] Parking the beam

[Dan]

Dave: I believe that the proper way to park your beam is with the boom end
pointing into the wind. Most beams are mounted to the mast at the center of
gravity (balance point). Since the reflector is heavier than the
director(s), this means that the mast plate is not in the mid point of the
boom. If the boom is broadside to the wind, gusts of wind apply a torque to
the mast and bump against the rotator gears or brake wearing and possibly
damaging them. If the boom is pointed into the wind, the elements have equal
forces applied from the wind and no torquing. You can watch your beam in a
gusty wind and see clearly the way it acts in different orientations.  73,
Dan, N5AR
----- Original Message -----
From: David Cook <davec at netdave.com>
To: TowerTalk Discussion Group (E-mail) <towertalk at contesting.com>
Sent: Saturday, September 13, 2003 9:57 PM
Subject: [TowerTalk] Parking the beam


> Ok, yet again I haven't checked the archives, so please flame me for what
is
> probably a fequently asked question.
>
> I have my spankin' new tower and TH3 beam up at long last and I was
thinking
> that it would be a good idea to park the thing in a position most neutral
to
> the prevailing winds. I've been parking it with the elements in line with
> the general wind direction here, but I'm wondering if it's better to turn
it
> face-on (elements broadside to the winds).
>
> It may not make any difference, but after all the hardship of rebuilding
> this 20 year old antenna, putting the tower up, and raising the whole
> assembly, I want to minimize the weather wear and tear as much as
possible.
>
> Thanks for any advice, and 73,
>
> -- Dave, WA0TTN
>
> _______________________________________________
>
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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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