[NLRS] 6m rover antennas

[Steven H Sawyers (na0ia)]

On my rover, I use an M^2 HO loop when mobile.

I have a Cushcraft 3 element that fits the width restrictions, that I take 
out in the warmer months.

If you are looking for quick assembly of cheap masts, 1-1/4" electrical 
conduit(1.510 OD), and 1-1/2 IMC (intermediate Metal Conduit)(1.680 ID and 
1.890 ID) from Menards or Home Depot make pretty good mating mast sections. 
I use a short 6" piece of the IMC clamped by the u-bolts on the antenna 
mast plate. I use 5/16" tractor 3 pt quick hitch retainer pins to pin stuff 
together. Use a 5/16" drill as any larger will give you too much slop. You 
can get the quick hitch pins at tractor supply or a farm store for about $1 
each.

The assembly procedure is stand antenna on reflector with boom pointed up. 
Insert 1-1/4" EMT. I use tape on the EMT to show insertion depth, and a 
long red mark on both pieces to show rotational alignment. I also grind a 
point on the quick hitch pins to they line up easier.

Insert Quick Hitch pin into antenna stub mast, and EMT.

Add IMC conduit to the other end of EMT and a Quick Hitch Pin with the same 
taping and marking styles. I use about 16 to 24 inches of overlap with the 
holes half way down.

Have partner hold down the end of the IMC while you walk up the antenna. I 
use a strut off the roof rack to stabilize the antenna - I have a quick 
hitch pin attachment for a U-bolt that attaches to the strut.

In the summer I will drive a metal tent stake in the ground and set the IMC 
over it to keep the bottom from kicking out.

At this time I usually realize that I forgot to attach the feed line so 
take it down and do that. I find that the small ball-bungies work great for 
attaching the feedline to the mast.

I also have used a bungie cord around the strut and the mast to help keep 
the thing pointed in one direction. I would like to try a Rotor but haven't 
done that yet.

I also have a nice collection of 2 inch HF booms from damaged antennas that 
I have used with muffler clamps. It is more rigid, but takes a wrench.

Steve