Steve:

I did some calculations last night, and alas, I think you're right on 
target.

Now, here's a question. ... It may seem like a dum question, but I really 
need a good answer here.

If I have to lengthen the antenna as you suggest, how do I make a splice on 
each of the legs that will be electrically strong, and that won't break in 
the wind, etc.?

I am now kicking myself that we didn't start with longer sections that could 
later be pruned, but that's behind me now.  ... Live and learn, I guess.

Would such splicing involve soldering, or is there another way I could do 
it?

I am using 14-gauge insulated wire for the antenna itself.

Thanks for any help you or anyone else can provide on the splicing issue.

73 from Tom Behler:  KB8TYJ


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Steve Forst" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2008 1:53 PM
Subject: Re: windom question


> Tom,
>
> I went to the link you provided, and I've read that one before, since I 
> have
> one of his antennas.
>
> Based on that formula and the demensions you have (80 ft. long side, and 
> 45
> ft. short side) it seems it was cut for 3.75 mhz.   That would be fine for 
> a
> single band antenna, but you want it  to work harmonicly on other bands.
>
> If it really is resonant at 3.750 mhz, then your first harmonic is 7.5mhz,
> then 15 mhz, and 30 mhz.  Out of band, but workable with the tuner.
>
> Lengthen the antenna 7 ft.  to get the resonant point down to 3.550 and 
> now
> your harmonics are 7.1, 14.2, and 28.4 mhz.  Just like God and Mr. Windom
> planned.
>
>
> There are always variables and you may never get all bands  perfect and 
> you
> may need to add mor or less than 7 ft. , but I thinkyou can get 20 and 40
> better, although you may see  higher swr at the top end of 75.  If you
> decide to add more wire, remember to follow the formula and  for a 7 ft.
> addition add 4 and a half ft. on the long side and 2 and a half on the 
> short
> side.
>
> I think this is  why most commercial OCF antennas are cut longer.   Easier
> to prune it and bring up the freq. than to add wire.
>
>
> Of course I may be full of crap, but it won't be the first time.
>
> 73, Steve KW3A
>