MFJ-1768 Dual Band Yagi Instruction Manual
8
Adequate protection can be accomplished by grounding the shield of the coax where it enters the
building to a good earth ground or directly burying the cable in the earth for several feet before it
enters the building. The coaxial cable should be totally disconnected from the station during
threatening weather conditions for maximum lightning protection.
A less effective method of protecting station equipment is to install an in-line coaxial lightning arrestor
with a heavy duty ground wire to a suitable earth ground, or a safety switching system as part of the
basic ham station equipment.
Maintenance
Your antenna is constructed of heavy duty non corrosive materials and should withstand normal
climates for many years. The use of some type of coaxial connector moisture protection is
recommended at the bottom coax connection and also around the center-feed connections, especially in
coastal areas where salty mist is commonplace.
GE makes a pure silicone grease called
"SILICONE DIELECTRIC COMPOUND"
that can be
applied SPARINGLY to the threaded area of the female connector. This compound, or even a clear
silicone heat sink compound, will prevent moisture from entering the connector through the threads
and protect the connectors from corrosion. THIS IS THE SAME TYPE OF SEALER THAT
COMMERCIAL ANTENNA INSTALLERS AND CATV COMPANIES USE WITH GREAT
SUCCESS.
A less desirable, but still adequate sealer is the automobile seam sealer commonly sold as "coax seal".
This is a pliable black sealing compound.
When installing any "coax seal", NEVER completely cover the barrel of the coax connector. The sealer
should ONLY be placed near the junction of the threaded part of the chassis connector and the knurled
area of the male connector. This will leave the bottom of the male outer sleeve open and permit the
connector to "breathe" so it does NOT collect moisture!
Technical Assistance
If you have any problem with this unit first check the appropriate section of this manual. If the manual
does not reference your problem or your problem is not solved by reading the manual you may call
MFJ toll-free at 1-800-647-TECH (8324). Outside of the continental U.S.A. call 601-323-5869. You
will be best helped if you have your unit, manual and all information on your station handy so you can
answer any questions the technicians may ask.
You can also send questions by mail to MFJ Enterprises, INC., PO. Box 494, Mississippi State, MS
39762; by FAX to 601-323-6551 or on Compuserve at [email protected]. Send a
complete description of your problem, an explanation of exactly how you are using your unit and a
complete description of your station.
