[TowerTalk] Restoring / Preserving Aluminum

[Gene WØQFC]

1. What's the best product out there for cleaning, restoring and preserving antenna aluminum? Brush-on? Spray-on? 

I use a Scotch-brite pad instead of steel wool; the steel wool will leave minute particles of aluminum embeded on the elements.

2. Is penetrox the best way to prevent oxidation on balun connections etc? Is it a good idea to spray connections with non-metalic paints after applying penetrox?

Mosley says that their compound is best because of their "Secret Sauce" that they add; I have used NOALOX, made by Ideal for aluminum electrical wire with good results.

3. Noalox is still used for aluminum element connections and so on -- are there any new and improved compounds? 

4. Do spray or brush-on aluminum preservative paints / laquers eventually crack / peal? Anything available that doesn't?

I used a clear acrylic spray made by Krylon with good results; I took down my TA-33JR after being up for four years and it looked the same as the day I put it up.

The tower is a U.S. Tower model HD555. It's been up for 5 years. What products are best for cable lubrication, cleaning greasing the tower section contacts etc? There are a few small rust spots on the tower and steel mast and was told that Naval grease will do the trick. Is rustoleum paint a good product to use after rust removal?  

I used Rustoleum with very good results and the nice thing is that you do not have to remove all of the rust - just wire brush the bad spots.
Hope this helps!

Gene, WØQFC



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