W6KJ modifies his Quad antenna

July, 2005

Here is the start of a series of pictures of Ron, W6KJ's quad modification. More info to follow.

The construction is done. I ran into a snag as the 18HT vertical at the back of the yard is detuned by the quad being so close and vice versa. I cannot make further adjustments until the quad is a few feet off the roof next Saturday. Construction was straightforward, and the individual elements when horizontal, are easy to carry around and move. It is when you try to mount one on the boom that the fun begins. I wish I had had a camera placed conveniently....on second thought, no. I have taken a few more shots and will attach one here. On Saturday, the young man I have hired and my volunteer crew will be here to install it on the tower. Wish us luck.

Until Saturday, I am just puttering, trying to get the last little detail done. I have a good crew and a professional climber coming so it should go smoothly. We have been having high temps each day so I scheduled it at 8:15 am, then today it got cloudy with temps only about 85 and a little breeze. I think I prefer a normal valley day and have it over with by 10 am. If all goes well, Bob, W6OWH, will take stills and movies of the whole thing.

Actually, it is a huge 4 element, 5 band Lightning Bolt quad at 49.9 feet (can't go over 50 feet without a permit) and it works perfectly with outstanding vswr on all bands. I had a really good crew, and the professional climber was thrilled to be done as well. All went as planned with very few burbles and trips up and down in the green bucket. If conditions are half way decent, you hams should be able to hear me NOW!

73, Ron

Yes, Ron! We can hear you now! Man, what a great signal you emanate from California. Your signal is heads and shoulders above the rest of the California IOOK. That ought to give them something to shoot at! Har! Congratulation and 73, Keith, WA8ZWJ