[Rover] MFJ 3 element 6 meter beam

Sun, 14 Apr 2002 00:53:22 -0500

When mobile, we use a loop antenna.  But if 6m is open, we'll stop and set
up the 3-el MFJ beam.  It's worked great for us with good SWR in the SSB
area but it gets a little high in the FM portion of the band.  Things we
found make a difference are 1) height & 2) making sure the elements are in
the correct position!  As for height, we've found the antenna likes to be up
15-20' or better.  There have been a couple of time where we put the
elements in the wrong positions...we were tired, rushing, etc.  Still made
contacts but the SWR wasn't great.  We solved that problem by marking the
elements and boom positions.  You might also check the coax balun...

Good luck,

John
AB5SS

----- Original Message -----
From: "KS4S" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, April 12, 2002 5:54 AM
Subject: [Rover] MFJ 3 element 6 meter beam

Anyone have any comments on the ssb use of the mfj 3 element for rovering?

I have one that I use if rovering, since it puts together quickly after
replacing the screws with thumb screws from Mcmasters. I have used it on and
off for about 3 years or so.

I have noticed that it is really borderline SWR in the SSB/CW portions.
When we operated stationary last time, I had to add a short extension to
bring down the SWR at the low end to the driven elements.  That blew the
antenna pattern somewhat I am sure.  I think the trailer below it bothered
the resonance more than the usual car parked with a mast and foot plate.

I suspect it is built for the middle of the band for FM operation as well.

I could modify the element lengths, but have not modeled anything.

Any comments?

Thanks,

Nyles
KS4S
[email protected]

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