[TowerTalk] Long Term Connector Reliability

[steven.gehring at gmail.com]

Agree.  As a recent Communications Systems Manager for a top-20 Midwest
city, I found that a large percentage of roughly fifteen-year-old LMR
antennas and associated transmission lines were overextended and needed
replacement.  Water intrusion, UV damage, lightning strikes and wind take
their toll, even with the best preventive measures taken years ago.  

Over the years, I've found antenna system inspections and preventive
maintenance are key.  Plan on certain replacements over the years.  Keep up
with them and ham on.  73.

Steve, NL7W
- Not in but around Palmer, Alaska, USA



-----Original Message-----
From: TowerTalk <towertalk-bounces at contesting.com> On Behalf Of
john at kk9a.com
Sent: Friday, July 22, 2022 5:53 PM
To: towertalk at contesting.com
Subject: Re: [TowerTalk] Long Term Connector Reliability

I have PL-259 and N connectors in use that are likely that old however none
have stayed connected anywhere near that time frame. It is a good question
but you cannot really complain about 25 years of service. I do not apply
anything inside the connector and use quality connectors such as Amphenol
and Andrew/Commscope.  W8JI has an article on grease and he states
conductive grease should never be used in RF connectors.
https://www.w8ji.com/dielectric_grease_vs_conductive_grease.htm

GL
John KK9A



k7nj wrote:

After over 25 years I've found some problems with connector conductivity at
my 4X4NJ station.  I would be interested in knowing about experience that
any of you may have with reliable connector conductivity for  similar time
periods. This is primarily with PL-259, N-Type, and hard-line  connectors
and associated adapters.  In particular, any experience with the following
would be helpful:

1.       Nothing done to ensure conductivity

2.       Silicon grease

3.       Penetrox (or similar)

4.       "STUF" dielectric water proofing filler

I'm interested mainly in actual experience that you have had after many
years of using any of the above, or other, methods.  Please note that I'm
not seeking methods for waterproofing - just in keeping the connection
between mating surfaces highly conductive assuming waterproofing is good.

73, Riki K7NJ

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