Maco V5/8

[Bootlegger]

After reading some of the problems with the Imax 2000(fiberglass tip splintering) I am looking at a Maco V5/8. Are these easy to tune and would it make any difference whether it's on a tripod or mast other than running a wire to a ground pole. The height would be about the same. Thanks for the help.

 

[KingCobra_CDX882]

Hi..

Do yourself a favor..
You are right to realise the Imax-2000 is not the best antenna
You are right to realise the 5/8 wave is still needed..

However..
I disagree with your choice of the Maco V5/8

although it likly is better then the Imax-2000
you can do far better

I recomend The Interceptor I-10K
I doubt there is a better base station vertical antenna for CB

give it a look at www.a1antennas.com

i have only been able to talk all over the world with mine

Later

 

[Bootlegger]

I wish I could get the 10-K also. However due to health issues I can't swing the price of the 10-K. I have been of about 12 weeks now and will return to work soon. But I will have to be back off work sometime down the line for treatment again. This is about all I can do money wise. About the Maco and the tripod on the roof if it won't create RF problems or counterpoise if I am using the right terms. Thanks again for replying.

 

[KingCobra_CDX882]

well...

i do hear you..
i was out 12 weeks 2 years ago..
besides the very bad bronkitis (that i am fighting a 3rd time this season)..i was bored as bored can be having been out that long..

i had forced myself 3 times a month to get out to visit work (although they all said i looked nearly dead)

all that being said..
i think the maco v5/8 is better then the Imax-2000

can you swing maybe wolf's .625 wave perhaps
(is what i would of gotten if jay didnt make his antenna)

hope you feel better

Later

 

[Master Chief]

I tell people, "If you can't afford the I-10K, get a Maco V58."

The Maco is a fine antenna and worth the $90.00 they cost. Assembly is simple and straight forward. I assemble them all the time for people and do it a little differently.

Read about it here.

 

[EDUK8TR]

Bootlegger,

If you haven't already done so, check out this thread as well.forum.worldwidedx.com/viewtopic.php?t=10390&sid=96176d4cb4790310522d230bc1bf333d

hope this helps!

 

[Bootlegger]

Thanks for all the help. I should be getting the antenna and tripod within a week and will post how it works out after I get the antenna up and tuned.

 

[Bootlegger]

Thanks for everyone the help with the antenna setup. I followed your assembly instructions Master Chief and I have a 1.2 swr on channel 20 with just a little fine tuning to have it even from channel 40 to channel 1. This on a pole just 12 foot off the ground. The ground radials are 2 piece and at the present time I can only mount 1 section on all four posts. When I get it on the roof this week I will be able to get the other half of the radials on. This antenna is receiving and transmitting fantastic. Thanks again.

 

[Master Chief]

No problem Bootlegger. The next V58 I assemble, I'm going to take pictures and put up a downloadable instruction manual on CBTRICKS if BB is OK with it.

 

[Bootlegger]

Master Chief on the wire that is exposed on the antenna. Do you cover it up on top side of where the PL 259 screws on. I will use coax seal on the PL 259 but was wondering about the top section that is exposed to the weather. Thanks.

 

[Master Chief]

Yep! Cover the top side of the connector too!

Some people upgrade the wire with a section of RG-8 shield (or braid). This isn't completely necessary. If you do use braid, be sure to seal it or the weather will get inside the braid and contaminate it.