I need to replace the coax cable that runs through the mast of our ODAY 25. If I connect the new cable to the old cable will I be able to draw the new cable through. I do not really want to remove the ends of the mast to do this. Would appreciate it if anyone can give me some advice on this? Need to get this done before I step the mast this spring. Mike
COAX CABLE
- Thread starter mike pace
- Start date
I will be doing this myself this weekend. I bought an adapter to attached the old cable to my new LMR-240uf cable. As long as the exit hole is big enough for the pl-259 connector to go through. The LMR-240 is a small diameter utraflex cable so I shouldn't have a problem. Does your mast have an internal conduit for wires?
Kito, thanks for the info. The holes in the mast are only slightly larger than the coax, so I plan to remove the connector on the old and solder the old and new element together and draw the new one through. At least that is the plan.
As far as having conduit in the mast, I am not sure.
As far as having conduit in the mast, I am not sure.
I suggest you reconsider that option. Soldering is not a mechanical bond nor should it be used as a means of physically connecting two wires. It won't work. A lineman's splice (of the inner conductors) should work much better.
No conduit in the mast. Open all the way except for any fitting protrusions or existing wiring. I ran a wire snake from the bottom to the top and pulled wire through for a mast head light. No problem.
You might want to try the trick of putting zip ties around the coax every few feet and in different directions to help control wire slap when the bolt is bouncing. Wish I had.
You might want to try the trick of putting zip ties around the coax every few feet and in different directions to help control wire slap when the bolt is bouncing. Wish I had.
The mast base is usually frozen to the tube. Taking the top off is cake- just that one big 1/2 inch bolt, and the mast top will slide out- make it easy for yourself. The zip ties at angles work, as does using the foam pipe insulation- split it, and push it down the mast, taping it at the joins as you go.
Attach a messenger line (strong 1/8 inch cord) with a couple of half hitches to the old coax and pull it out. Then attach the messenger line to the new coax with a couple of half hitches, wrap it in electrical tape, and pull the new coax into the mast. Just did this last weekend on a 48 foot mast and worked like a charm.
this is really getting complicated. just solder the two wires together. like you suggested and electrical tape overtop. it is seamless and wont catch on anything. its what a 40' run? a toddler should be able to pull the wire, any more pressure required and something is catching.
Solder may work, may not. When we pulled 2 inch wire rope on drilling rigs we used, well, I don't know what it's called but remember those chineese handcuffs you played with as a kid?, like that but made of wire. They must make a size that fits coax. The harder you pull the tighter it grips.