[TowerTalk] Hose Clamps

[K8RI]

On 1/27/2013 1:20 PM, Jerry Gardner wrote:
> Lots of interesting suggestions. Thanks everyone.
>
> Here are some more observations that touch on some of the points mentioned.
>
> Yes, the MFJ-sourced clamps look kind of junky. The screw heads are lumpy
> and of variable size as my nut driver fits over some well and will barely
> fit others. I'll pick up some replacements at Home Depot -- their web site
> says they have "all stainless" clamps in the right size -- and see if they
> are better. I'll bring along a magnet just to be sure.
>

Bout all you ca do is "play it by ear"
Most of the "Big Box Stores" tend to import this type of item. Not all 
imports are junk, but be sure to use the proper size.  The small clamps 
break easily, but going to a size larger ends up with sharper angles 
causing them to break more easily and they have less contact area.  I'd 
rather use two small ones with a good fit which someone else already 
mentioned.

So far I've never had a problem with elements coming loose.

Of course you could use a single small pop rivet to lock the element in 
place as does Force 12.  They use two, but no hose clamps.

73

Roger (K8RI)


> The slits in the tubing appear to be of the right width as when the clamps
> get tight enough to break there's still some gap showing in the slits. I am
> lining the clamp screw housing up over the slits as mentioned in the
> Hy-Gain instructions.
>
> I'm using Noalox on the joints. This tends to lubricate the tubes so they
> will slide and twist more readily even when the clamp is getting near the
> breaking point. I'm sure this is making the situation worse, but since the
> Noalox won't disappear when the antenna is up in the air, I still worry
> that things are not tight enough.
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