Never ever count on the ground screw on the radio for lightning protection. That is rf ground. If lightning hets that far you are in a world of trouble. I would do what youre doing but not for lightning. On Jun 25, 2015 10:01 AM, "Tom Behler" <[log in to unmask]> wrote: > Hello, all. > > > > I know I'll get varying opinions on this, but I have a question about > station grounding out at the RV camp site. > > > > As many of you know, my main rig out there is my TS480, and I will be using > my trusty Alpha Delta DXCC multi-band dipole. When all is said and done, > I'm hoping the antenna will be up about 30 feet in the trees. > > > > Just as I did in previous years, I will have a ground connection running > from the ground screw on the TS480 to a terminal ground connection on the > back bumper of the RV. I use 10-gauge wire for this connection. > > > > > > Of course, I am very careful about disconnecting my antenna at any sign of > thunderstorms. > > > > Is this adequate, or should I be pursuing something additional? > > > > I wouldn't think a dipole would have to be grounded with a ground rod such > as is the case with a vertical, or a beam antenna on a tower, but my > theoretical knowledge in this area is a bit lacking. > > > > Thanks for any thoughts. > > > > Tom Behler: KB8TYJ > > >