[TowerTalk] T2X Rotator Brake Anomaly

[Ed Goss]

GM Folks,

      Early this year I had a T2X rebuilt by a highly respected 
rebuilder. Part of the rebuild included new brake wedge, wedge dowel, 
return springs, and lower T2X/brake housing. All checked out ok on the 
ground before I put this back up.

The issue I have is that in moderate-to-very high winds, the antenna (3 
el Steppir) turns about 45 degrees or so, perhaps more if I don't return 
it to its normal resting place of due N. The turning is not mechanical 
mast or antenna bracket slippage, but rotator turning. During actual 
use, rotation from the ground all appears normal, and I hear the 
expected brake solenoid activation and then wedge being pulled into place.

I know how the brake is supposed to work and how it is designed. This 
anomaly has been observed since I reinstalled the rotator right after 
rebuild earlier this year. With all new brake parts and a new lower 
housing, I can't explain the slippage in high winds.

I am posting here in hopes that someone has experienced this anomaly, 
and taken down their T2X for repair and analysis. I would be interested 
in what was found to explain the slippage. There are several things that 
could account for the problem, but I'd like to see if there is some 
real-life findings and what the failure mode was. Thanks for info!

--Ed, N3CW--


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