[TowerTalk] tower xosts

[Michael J. Castellano]

Have here 100 ft. of SSV Heavy series (9N at base).

Cost:  

tower:   scrounged from cell site rebuild.   NO COST
            2 years old!

New bolts for tower (all bolts)                   $300

transport:  borrowed local logging truck     $25 for diesel fuel

hole:   "digging party with local hams"      $100 in food etc

rebar/concrete:  16 cu yds                       $300 in place
  (I agreed to PM all their two way radios)

finishing:   I did it.                                    no cost

permit (for steel / concrete placement)       $35
no tower permit required.

crane - installation (OUCH!!!)                       $400
minimum time.

grounding kits, bonding etc                       no cost
scrounged from cellsite contractors.
(includes 2500 ft of #8 radials.)

200 ft run 4" pvc                                       no cost
scrounged, excess from local 
construction project

310 ft. 1-7/8 hardline & connectors             no cost
"scrapped" from cellsite upgrade

325 feet 8 #12 conductor traffic signal light     no cost
cable (for rotor) scrounged from DOT 
electrical department.

new washer & dryer:                                 $1000
 I get a tower, xyl gets 
a new dryer and washer

It CAN be done on the cheap, and still be a professional grade installation.

Of course, it takes time, and a LOT of running around, (which is worth $$) and  you must be in the "right place at the right time". 

... and also "brass ones" to ask someone you dont know:  "You don't want that, do you?"

Good building, keep smiling, and as always,

73!

Mike
KM1R