[Mobile-Portable] Winter Time Mobile Antenna Cleaning Time

[WD8ARZ]

Yep, its that time of year again. Here is what I do to prepare my mobile 
antenna system for winter.

First I clean off all the dirt and grime from the quick disconnects, 
masts, coils and whips.
Using a clean paper towel or rag, I dry them off. That extra wiping 
effort removes a lot of dirt.

Then I wax the masts, coils and whips using RainX. Two coats wont hurt.

Its amazing how much the snow and slush just slits off the antenna 
system after doing that.

SWR is more stable, and you dont risk arching of the coil housing on the 
low bands, especially 160 and 80 meters. Some manufactures dont warranty 
damage from RF arching ...

By the way, I do my satellite dish too .... keeps the reception signal 
strength up during snow storms, especially moist ones. One time of 
having to go on the roof in the winter time to clean off a satellite 
dish antenna will convince you to clean it well and wax it before the 
winter snow flies.

73 from Bill - WD8ARZ
South Bend, Indiana