[Antennas] Splicing Coax

[Merv Stump]

Gotta be a generation thing...

I tuned my first rig for maximum brightness into a 40 watt light bulb and
then switched to the antenna;  I used a double pole double throw knife
switch to switch the antenna from transmit to receive; and every week I
saved 50 cents from my $5 allowance to buy another crystal which cost $2.95.
With my credentials established as a charter member of the "old fart's
club", I have to say I would not have believed that there was a ham anywhere
in the world who would not attempt to splice coax.  Have you tried it?  I
have, it works, and I will do it again. Here's how:

First remove about a one inch piece of the dielectric and put it aside.  As
carefully as possible role back the shield about 1 inch on each piece of the
coax.  Remove the dielectric for 3/4 inch on each piece.  Overlap the center
conductors by 1/2 inch and solder using as little solder as possible.  Now,
take the piece of dielectric you put aside and split down one side; cut the
length to exactly fit the gap, and slip the dielectric over your spliced
center conductors.  Now as carefully as possible role the shields back down,
overlapping one with the other.  Do not attempt to solder the shields
together--just wrap tightly with good electrical tape extending the wrapping
about 1 inch over the ends of the cover on each piece.  Finally, cover the
whole thing with silicone sealant.

I assure you this will have less loss and less impact on swr than 2 pl259's
and a barrel connector.

Regards, Merv W2OE