In the massive storm of April 1, 1997, the third largest snowfall in the
history of the Boston area, I lost backstays on three TH6/TH7's. Two on
one tower, and one on another.
Examination shows that the backstay wire had rusted through. The plated
u-bolts and saddles were also heading for the "rust to dust" stage of
life.
I am now contemplating a trip to Bliss Marine, to buy 1/8" stainless
steel guy wire. This marine supplier also has a $20 device which uses a
socket wrench to tighten small nico-press style holders (for about 48
cents each) to hold the backstays in place. The big crimping tool is
$120.
On the other hand, K1LZ is recommending that I use wire rope in a plastic
cover, with 54 cent plated u-bolts and saddles (small ones).
I recall that W1RR, a smart person in my judgment, has used dacron rope
for backstays, as well as Phillystran (on BIG booms).
The project is: backstays for a 24' boom TH67/TH7. What would you
recommend?
Fred Hopengarten K1VR
617/259-0088
Six Willarch Road
Lincoln, MA 01773-5105
permanent e-mail address: fhopengarten@mba1972.hbs.edu
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