As indicated before the current antenna for the GRHub Network 145.550 Mhz Linked Radio is only about 2 meters above roof level. Many radio amateurs cannot access the 145.550 Mhz link due to current installation position of the antenna. I received several request from local radio amateurs to please extend the mast for the Diamond X50 antenna currently in use. I was looking to build a 300 x 300 x 300 galvanized tower but the current cost of metal and galvanizing does not justify spending a few thousand rand now, as I plan to move to a retirement village in the near future. As yet I have not taken a decision on whether I will stay in Mossel Bay or move somewhere else. So the best alternative option is to use what I have on hand. I have a solid aluminum flag pole as can be seen in the image. I needed a base plate and concrete block as well as a few other pieces of metal to erect this flag pole and install the Diamond X50 to it. This flag pole is really ideal, lightweight, easy to erect and can be extended to 12 meters in height by adding a 6m thick-walled aluminum pipe to the top. I started constructing the base plate which will be bolted with 20mm bolts. The pole will be kept upright by the pedestal and a metal bracket mounted to the wall where the mast will be erected. If I go the full 12 meters I will add guy wires. At first I will erect the mast as portrayed in the photo. If I am not happy with the coverage area I will extend the mast to 12 meters. As inflated prices makes it nowadays difficult to purchase necessities I will use what I have on hand. Hot galvanizing the metal parts will cost me about R400 for petrol alone and a further R25 a kilogram for galvanizing. I am looking at going the cold galvanizing route as by the time the metal starts rusting eventually I will not be living at my current residence. Updates to follow regarding the mast project.
Here is a few images: (Please note that all metal parts are currently only spot welded)
