TV Rotors: What do you have on 'em?

[Mudfoot]

I have used common TV rotors to rotate an old V-Quad years ago and now a Cushcraft 13B2 2 meter beam running horizontal (which is soon to be vertical)..

The manual state to only use 3 inches of mast protruding above the rotor clamps. I realize they are being cautious, but I would like to know what others are using on these rotors, besides TV antennas.

Also, how long is your support mast above the rotor?

I do have an old unused TV rotor thrust bearing that is 40+ y/o and made in USA. I know it would allow for a much sturdier install, but have not needed it yet.

Just looking for ideas...

 

[Mudfoot]

I have several HY Gain Tailtwisters and a couple of HAM IV rotors.

It's not how high above the rotor that makes the difference, it is the fact that real ham rotors has a brake which holds it in one place when you put it where you want it and it stays there.

The case is stronger which absorbs more shock from the rocking motion of the antenna.

The motor is stronger - and has more torque.

Thanks for your reply...But,

I am seeking info on TV rotors....

Radio Shack, Phillips, RCA, Channel Master and the like.

 

[Captain Kilowatt]

I have several HY Gain Tailtwisters and a couple of HAM IV rotors.

It's not how high above the rotor that makes the difference, it is the fact that real ham rotors has a brake which holds it in one place when you put it where you want it and it stays there.

The case is stronger which absorbs more shock from the rocking motion of the antenna.

The motor is stronger - and has more torque.

I disagree. If the rotator is not tower mounted it makes all the difference in the world how far above the rotator the antenna is mounted. Too much mast above the rotator results in a lot of leverage and it is quite possible to break the rotator housing or the mount even on T2X rotators with a large antenna. Even with in-tower mounting you should use a thrust bearing to limit sideways movement. As for your other points, I do agree.

When using a light duty rotator like a TV rotator, the closer the rotator is to the antenna the better. This lets the part of the mast below the rotator absorb the sideways leverage.If you have several feet of mast below the rotator, I would mount the rotator just below the ends of the elements of the 13B2 thus keeping it out of the element field. the would only be about 18-24 inches and should be OK if you have several feet below the rotator.

 

[Mudfoot]

This is my current flat side install. The longest element is 20" so I would like my fiberglass mast to be 24" total length which will allow 4" into the rotor.

Anyone think that will be to much mast for this rotor to handle?

I love comments...

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk119/m42duster/photobucket-13740-1308594288975.jpg

 

[Moleculo]

I have the Hy-Gain AR-35 light weight rotor, which is basically the same as the radio shack TV rotor. I have a a 5' or 6' mast holding up the Gizmotchy 2m antenna, which is very light weight. So far I've had no problems, and we get pretty good winds at times.