I just learned that replacement radomes are $60; not as bad as I thought!

73,

Kim N5OP
WX5NWC Tustee

On Mon, Dec 5, 2016 at 16:26 Kim Elmore <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> After a bit of sleuthing, I've learned a bit more about the antenna
> itself. I'm still awaiting time in my schedule to call Fluid Motion (makers
> of the SteppIR antenna) to learn specifics. However, in all likelihood, the
> rubber seals at the base of the fiberglass radomes that seals the joint
> between the radomes and the stepper motors and tapes, have deteriorated.
> These will all have to be replaced; they then need additional protection
> from the elements using heat-shrink tubing and copious application of
> UV-resistance electrical sealing tape (Scotch 33 or 88 tape) and
> UV-resistant ty-wraps.. It's possible that one or both of motor/tape units
> will need replacement at about $300 each. Assuming the worst, that's $600
> for new parts and probably another $100 for new seals. One radome is lost
> and needs replacement, but I don't know what that will cost. These are not
> simply tubes because they contain a track in which the tapes run; I'll
> guess $150 but will have a more accurate figure soon.
>
> If we choose to sell and replace this antenna with something else that
> covers the HF spectrum form 13-30 MHz, it would have to be a log periodic
> design. Tennadyne is a respected name and an antenna close to the
> characteristics of what we have will cost about $1100.
>
> 73,
>
> Kim Elmore, N5OP
> WX5NWC Trustee
>
> --
>
> Kim Elmore, Ph.D. (Adj. Assoc. Prof., OU School of Meteorology, CCM, PP
> SEL/MEL/Glider, N5OP, 2nd Class Radiotelegraph, GROL)
>
> *"In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. But, in
> practice, there is." – Attributed to many people; it’s so true that it
> doesn’t matter who said it.*
>