Colin:

Well, you really do have a point here, about just biting the bullet and 
ordering a new magmount base.  I mean, really, it's the same cost as going 
out to dinner with the XYL, which we probably do more than we should.



It may just be the easiest thing to do.

I'll have to check on the one I currently have.  I don't think it is a 
Larsen.  I think it might be a Comet.  I'm just surprised at how quickly the 
coax deteriorated, but then again, I'd probably deteriorate too if I was out 
in the weather like that!  (grin)

Anyway, thanks for your thoughtful response.  I really appreciate it.

Tom Behler: KB8TYJ



----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Colin McDonald" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Sunday, March 03, 2013 4:36 PM
Subject: Re: Mobile Antenna Mount Options


> just buy a new magnet mount base.
> they are 30 bucks give or take and it'll last you another 3 years.
> Far easier and cleaner than trying to replace the coax etc.
> The jacket on that cheap rg58 that comes with magnetic mounts is not UV
> resistant, it's not salt resistant or any of that stuff.  So, in a mobile
> environment where you get lots of both around, it'll break down after a
> while.
> They're more or less disposable like allot of stuff these days.
> Larsen magnet mount bases tend to have higher quality coax...I've got one
> that I've had for 13 years and the coax is still pretty decent on it...and
> it's been mobile for a good part of that time.
> The only thing I've had to do to it in 13 years is open it up and cut the
> coax back a few inches at the feed point and resolder it...salt and water
> will find their way into the feed point no matter how well you seal it up.
> This time I put some of that coax connecter sealer puddy stuff in there to
> help it last a while longer.
> Anyway, when you run coax through doors and so on, it will eventually 
> break
> down...it's a fact of life with a mobile installation like what you have.
> Just replace the whole coax and mount assembly.  Bite the bullet and go on
> lol.
> If you have to spend 30 bucks on your mobile antenna every 3 or 4 years,
> it's not that big a deal...10 bucks a year or less for maintinence isn't
> awful I say.
>
> As for alternative mounting methods...you might be able to find something,
> but remember, a magnet mount in the center of the roof of the vehicle is
> going to be one of the best mobile antennas you can get.
> other than a permanently mounted base where you drill a big hole lol.
> Anything other than the center of the roof type mount, either magnetic or
> drilled,  will yield lesser results in my experience.
>
>
> 73
> Colin, V A6BKX
>