[VHFcontesting] Receiver hitch mast

[Nate Duehr]

Tom Sneden, K6VCR wrote:
> 
> 
> OK, I see that there might be some interest in receiver hitch type masts. 
> I have been working out a design for a tubular tower that will attach to a
> receiver hitch.
> My goals are that it nest at about 10ft, extend to at least 35ft, be
> rotatable from the bottom, tilt over (in the 10 ft collapsed position) with
> a winch, extend using a winch and not weigh over 350 pounds.

My rover setup is a old bicycle rack made to fit in a receiver hitch, 
big clamps (like you use on a tower to attach a large antenna to a big 
tubular tower leg) and a 3" OD piece of pipe.

Cheap, effective... doesn't meet some of your requirements.

It does meet your design requirements of "nesting at about 10ft" since 
it never goes any higher than 12ft, doesn't extend, rotates by turning 
the vehicle (ha!  Is that "from the bottom"?), no need for a winch, and 
doesn't weigh that much.

:-)

Does that work?

> Before I ramble any further, would anyone else be interested in this thread?

Yep.  I'm curious if it can be done (your requirements - all of them) 
for a LOT less than $600.  Otherwise, the bike rack and a lot of driving 
in circles will remain in my future.

Nate WY0X