[TowerTalk] Re: TowerTalk Digest, Vol 25, Issue 110

[Joe Subich, K4IK]

> >
> >I've done something similar to what Larry has done; however, 
> >I use heavy duty, flexible vinyl and fold it into a simple 
> >cone.  I wrap the top of the cone around the mast above the 
> >thrust bearing so it forms an umbrella to protect moisture 
> >from settling on or into the bearing.  The vinyl can obtained 
> > as scrap from fabric shops or upholstery shops.
> 
> Even easier is to use truck or car inner tube. Cut it so it 
> drapes over the top of the bearing. Secure it to the top of 
> the mast with a hose clamp.

Still easier, find a flexible plumbing coupler ... Home Depot 
locally has them in 2" to 3" (and 2" to 4").  Slide the 2" end 
down over the mast leaving the "wide" end down over the "pointy
top" of the tower.  The mast end can be held in place by the 
supplied worm gear clamp.  

I suspect that a coupler could be slit length wise to install 
on an existing tower/mast and still provide plenty of protection 
when the top end is attached to the mast with the clamp. 

The larger size couplers may be large enough to flare out over 
a thrust bearing if the bearing is not sealed - though most are 
designed to keep water from the bearings. 

 73, 

   ... Joe, K4IK