[TowerTalk] guying of 45' telescoping pole

[W1GOR]

John,

All guy lines, regardless of guy material, should be connected to the guy 
rings with thimbles, preferably stainless steel, although galvanized 
thimbles will work.  A thimble will allow the guy line to make a smooth 
curve that will avoid the very sharp corners of the guy ring.   If it's a 
temporary setup, use the thimble and securely tie the dead end of the line. 
For more permanent installations, use guy-grips as required for the 
individual guying materials.  For galvanized or stainless steel wire, use 
two or more saddle clamps to secure the dead end of the wire.  Remember the 
old line, "never saddle a dead horse...".   Be sure that the 'live-ends' of 
the guys are sitting on the saddles of the clamps, and that the dead ends 
are on the u-bolt side.

As for the cotter keys (pins), they're fine, provided they are stout enough. 
If you want to be extra-safe, buy larger replacement pins at an automobile 
supply store, and drill the holes, with very little clearance, to 
accommodate the larger pins.  Don't give the cotter pin any room to move and 
it will last a very long time.

73, Larry - W1GOR