[TowerTalk] Crankups - pros

[RICHARD BOYD]

I agree with the negatives about crankups given.  Also, less windload -- limited by the lack of guys -- it's self-supporting -- and the smaller diameter of the top section.

In favor of them:  Greater storm survivability, lowering to 22' or so (use a ladder to go up) the working height.  Though 22' is still dangerous, some people really do not want to be 40 or 50 or 60 or 90' above the ground, fear of heights.  At a beach home where winds are higher, etc. and any second home where you're not there all the time, the "stowed position" may be helpful for survivability.  And many of these types of QTHs don't have much land -- land needed for the footprint of the guy wires, etc., so a self supporter may be what's needed.  The "stealth" factor that cranked down behind your house a lot of neighbors and passers-by won't be able to see it.

73 - Rich, KE3Q