[PVRCNC] AB-577 guy wires at VP5M

[Jim K4QPL]

A few months ago someone posted a warning about AB-577 guy wire shackles.
Sorry, in my old age I can't remember who it was. I had PLANNED to replace
them with new Phillystran guy sets when I had some time. Anyhow, when John,
K4BAI and I arrived at VP5M Thursday I saw one of the base guy wires on the
ground and the mast held in position against the Caribbean winds by the top
guy only! The bronze hook was simply cracked in half from metal fatigue.
Don't know how long it was that way but we made a temporary fix with a
ratchet binder strap and Friday morning we were at the hardware store to buy
new shackles for all the guys. A couple hours doing that.  Major SteppIR
disaster and a ruined contest barely averted.

To repeat the  earlier warnings, if you have an AB-577 with original
military bronze hooks, REPLACE THEM NOW!

73,

Jim, VP5/K4QPL