[TowerTalk] Climbing mast

[Ed Williams]

Hi Mike & Patrick,

You might want to check out the following for mast steps also.
http://www.kf7p.com/KF7P/Mast_Steps.html

73, de KN4KL ed

-----Original Message-----
From: TowerTalk [mailto:towertalk-bounces at contesting.com] On Behalf Of
Patrick Greenlee
Sent: Wednesday, December 02, 2015 9:01 AM
To: towertalk at contesting.com
Subject: Re: [TowerTalk] Climbing mast

Mike, I don't know about masts with steps but mast steps are readily 
available from chandeliers  (outfitters for ships/boats.)   Mast steps 
are available in various designs and materials.  Forget the folding mast
steps as folding is likely an unneeded feature with considerable added
expense.  Stainless steel non folding steps aren't free either but what is
your convenience and personal safety worth?

Here is one source of many... 
http://www.westmarine.com/buy/west-marine--stainless-mast-steps--110742

The simple triangulated design is very stout and easily handled as a DIY
project if you are at all handy.  With a little "sweat equity" you can save
a significant quantity of fun tickets (AKA $) and build your own.  
Blind rivets of stainless steel are an excellent choice for fasteners.  
The larger sizes of SS blind (pop) rivets are a challenge with the standard
"el cheapo" hand riveter.  Harbor Freight has a larger HD variety that would
make it easier to do a good job.

Don't forget to stiffen the tread with an angle or channel shape or other
weather resistant material. The West Marine product uses teak, commenting it
is for non slip tread but is also stiffens the tread. For nonskid tread get
the peel and stick non slip matereial at the big box stores or put on a coat
of paint, sprinkle it with silica sand or crushed walnut shell.  When dry
top coat lightly with same paint.  For excellent traction use course silica
sand.

Patrick        NJ5G





On 12/2/2015 7:29 AM, Mike Reublin NF4L wrote:
> Anybody remember who made the masts with steps? Are they still made?
>
> 73, Mike NF4L
>
>
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