[TowerTalk] Need help with HF problems

[Jim Brown]

On 5/30/2011 11:59 AM, Jim W7RY wrote:
> How about something as simple as a bad coaxial cable from the station move?

YES. Someone else mentioned that, and I meant to reinforce it.  Two 
common problems -- coax with a crummy, lightweight shield, and a poorly 
soldered (or crimped) connector.  NEVER NEVER NEVER use the light-weight 
foil-shielded stuff designed for cable TV and home antenna wiring -- 
it's very difficult to get a good shield connection, and the shield is 
FAR too lightweight for HF, especially for HF transmitting.  Also, make 
sure that all coax connections are screwed down really tight. I use 
nothing but soldered connectors myself, and am serious about soldering 
them.  Some are happy with crimps -- if you DO use crimps, make sure 
that you're using quality connectors and crimp tool that matches them 
(EXACTLY), and that the connector matches the coax you're putting it on. 
EXACTLY.

And a JUNK coax connector or adapter.  The crap you buy at hamfests and 
even at many online vendors is cheap JUNK.  Look for crummy coax 
splicers (barrels), Tees, elbows (right angles), and adapters (PL259 to 
BNC and/or N, etc.).  If it doesn't say Amphenol on it, 99% odds are 
that it's junk. An exception are the old unbranded mil-type connectors 
with numbers stamped into them.

73, Jim K9YC