[TowerTalk] leaning towers

[K8RI]

On 3/26/2013 9:03 AM, Jim Lux wrote:
> On 3/25/13 9:04 PM, Jim W7RY wrote:
>> Why not just rent one Steve?  Then you can see what your needs are
>> before you buy one?
>>
>
>>
>> -----Original Message----- From: Steve K7AWB
>> Thanks to everyone for the advice in confirming a tower is straight up
>> vertically.  I think I will buy a transit, but need advice in which one
>> some
>> of you have bought and used for this event, if any.  For instance, at
>> Lowes.com, there are several CST/Burger ones, but it is  hard to
>> determine
>> the differences between them and which ones will do the job I need to do
>> with it.  I have no problem spending around $300 or so for a level, but I
>> want it to do the job.  And maybe later I can use it to install a
>> 4-square.

Look at the specs.  Most of what the big box stores have will do within 
an inch at either 100 or 200 feet Great fob getting buildings straight 
and towers true with in an inch or two.  I doubt it'd be good enough for 
surveying but as they say, Good enough for who it's for"  <:-))

However even when set true the laser levels and transits require viewing 
the line and that light is bright enough to be dangerous.

If you were a bit closer, I'd loan you mine and you could determine if 
it'd do the job. It did for me.  I lei it draw a line up one leg of the 
tower and use a telescope to view ii That laser is bright enough you can 
view it in daylight although in bright sunlight it may take a bit of effort.

Check the tool rental places if you want a real theodolite.

73

Roger (K8RI)
>
>
> Very much so.. rent one (or borrow one). or at least go try it out (I'm
> not sure the tool cage at HD or Lowes is the optimum place for this)
>
> Do you need a level, or do you want something that can measure vertical
> angles (transit/theodolite).  Do you want something with stadia marks
> (so you cam measure distance by looking at a suitably marked rod)?
>
> Used equipment is also available, and often a very good deal. Some time
> ago, I would have said "look in the yellow pages under surveying
> equipment", but these days it's a bit trickier; check online.  It's very
> helpful if you can go to the surveying store (as it were) and try stuff
> out.
>
> You'll also need a decent tripod (inexpensive aluminum tripods are about
> $60-80). If you're doing leveling, you also probably need a rod of some
> sort.  If you're looking to save money, you can get what looks like a
> giant tape measure with the graduations on it that you attach to a 2x4
> or similar.  The problem is whether your "rod support" is straight enough.
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