Last year I mentioned the disappointing quality of the Sirio antenna mount I had purchased although it still works it is rusting away quite quickly and will need to be replaced soon-not impressive after just around 6 months. That mount by the way is being used for the VHF whip, the 10 year old Diamond mount is being used for HF and still looks as good as new. I can't say the same for the Ebay spring though which had a shiny chrome finish but now looks like this:
Now I didn't pay a great deal for this little item, but it was the only one I could get. It still functions of course but looks awful again after 6 months. Yes it has been outside in all weathers but surely that it what it was designed for! I don't want a rusty thing like this attached to my car! I have now painted it silver with some Hammerite paint so that it looks a little better. I wonder is it possible to get quality antenna items anymore or should be just accept that things are only going to last six months or so?
Hi Kevin, I too have run into some poor quality stuff out there and I find when you don't spend the money up front that in the long run you end up putting out more. I have two Diamond mounts and they are great. The only mistake I made was when there is no antenna in the 3/8 threaded mount I put a cheap 3/8 bolt in and it rusted really bad over the past winter. Now I am in the middle of replacing parts on the mount as the 3/8 bolt is rusted in and not coming out. Going to get a good stainless steel on this time. Lesson learned.
ReplyDeleteHello Kevin, I always choose antennas with stainless steel parts. When I build my own antennas I always use stainless steel bolts and nuts. I've had my share of rusty springs, bolts, nuts and other materials...unfortenately the hammerite won't last long, I can tell you that. Better try to get another (stainless) spring. 73, Bas
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