Antenna Mast Suggestions

[ab5r]

I started to use the word HELP in the title, but was afraid it might scare people off. (smile)

I am wanting to install a G5RV antenna in the Inverted V configuration, but do not have a proper center support, as suggested. Searching through various fiberglass pole solutions seem to indicate expensive, flimsy at tip, and generally unsatisfactory.

Of course, metal masts are discouraged.

Anyone have suggestions, sources or ideas, please?

73,
Jerry AB5R

 

[prcguy]

A metal mast is fine since its at a mostly right angle to the elements. You will have to space the balanced feed line away from a metal mast and you can make PVC spacers similar to the ones used on my 4-bay dipole array project, just find a PVC Tee that is about the same ID as the OD of your mast, then cut in half as shown in the project and use hose clamps to secure it. See the pdf in this thread: http://forums.radioreference.com/build-your-own-antenna/109144-4-bay-vhf-dipole-array-project.html

Instead of a G5RV have you considered the ZS6BKW? It is a cousin of the G5RV but its designed as a multiband antenna where the G5RV was designed as a 20m antenna with a little gain.
prcguy

 

[ab5r]

Only thing is that I already HAVE the G5RV antenna. Years ago when living in Arkansas, with a LOT of trees, I used a COBRA antenna and worked WAS. I liked that antenna, but no trees and too big here in Texas.

I might add that I was hoping for something about 30 ft. to accommodate the 32" ladder line.

Thanks for input.

 

[K5MPH]

Im with prcguy i have seen other hams do the same kind of thing,kind of like an off set.......

 

[ab5r]

Thanks guys. I guess that I am trying to determine what the pole would be for the off-sets to be attached; keeping mind my needed 30+ feet.

73

 

[cmdrwill]

Max Gain Systems has fiberglass masts. I do not recommend having a metallic mast in the last 6 to ten feet so the antenna is away from a metal mast.

 

[n5ims]

Max Gain Systems has fiberglass masts. I do not recommend having a metallic mast in the last 6 to ten feet so the antenna is away from a metal mast.

The problem with just a short non-metallic section is that the G5RV design has it work best if the open-wire feedline drops directly down and avoids metallic support structures. Once the transition from open-wire to coax happens, this restriction no longer applies.

 

[ab5r]

Thank you, cmdrwill. I did not know about Max Gain Systems, and believe they will fit my purpose

N5IMS, you are exactly correct and was what I was planning: a 32 ft. drop to my air choke and coax from there.

Regards to all, and thanks.
Jerry

 

[cmdrwill]

The problem with just a short non-metallic section is that the G5RV design has it work best if the open-wire feedline drops directly down and avoids metallic support structures. Once the transition from open-wire to coax happens, this restriction no longer applies.

Exactly, the so called feed line on that antenna does radiate and will de tune the antenna if near metallic masts, ect.

 

[NDRADIONUT]

Hang the center from a tree....

 

[prcguy]

If the feedline is run 6" or more away from a metal mast it will work fine. The feedline on a G5RV does not have to hang down, it can run horizontal. The only thing to keep in mind there is running it away from the antenna at a right angle as far as possible.
prcguy

Exactly, the so called feed line on that antenna does radiate and will de tune the antenna if near metallic masts, ect.

 

[ab5r]

No Trees available. Wished there was. Thanks for everyone's input.

 

[KG7WBW]

Hi ab5r,

MFJ makes some tripods with telescopic masts. One is a 6-7' and the other is a 17'+.