[TowerTalk] Nuther Nooby question

[ersmar at comcast.net]

Scotty:

     This subject was discussed on TowerTalk several years ago but, unlike true north and owls, has not been seen since.  I was unable to find any postings in the archives - probably used the wrong key words.  What I recall of the postings, which I applied to my own tower installation, is the following:

     Loosely install all components of the rotator, bearing, mast and shelves on the tower.  Tighten the bearing's setscrews against the mast.  Then tighten the following components in the order shown:  mast to rotator clamp; rotator to shelf bolts; shelf to tower bolts.  This sequence ensures that any small misalignments are compensated for by the next stage of tightening.  I followed this procedure and to this day, five years after initial installation, my rotator turns the mast freely without binding.  

     As another precaution against binding, I installed a self-aligning bearing, not a TB-3.  This commercial bearing allows for up to 2 degrees (I think) of axial misalignment betweeen the bearing and the shaft/mast.  

     Did I miss anything, fellows?

73 de
Gene Smar  AD3F


 -------------- Original message ----------------------
From: w7psk at w7psk.net
> The two towers Ive had, the rotor was mounted on a mast and antenna above that.  
> So I know not the following.
> 
> 
> My 9ft GM is built and I have the Thrust Bearing on top.   
> 
> Question,  What is a good procedure to ensure thrust bearing to rotor alignment?   
> Never had an inside mount like this.
> 
> So what do the pros do ?
> 
> 
> Scotty W7PSK
> 
> 
> PS, this group is a wealth of info and I for one appreciate the time you guys 
> take to answer questions.
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