[amsat-bb] Yaesu G-5500 question

[Bob Hammond]

Jim, that's the very reason I installed a counterbalance.

Everyone, my question really was based on what I'm seeing when my antennas
rotate in AZ.  Given the moment arm of the counterbalance (about 3 feet)
and 5 LB weight on the end, once the rotor stops at an azimuth, I get about
3 cycles of wobble back and forth.  It does not affect satellite signal
(beam width) but I was wondering what it was doing to my rotor gears.

On the other hand, it's been like that for over 6 months of operation with
no issues.

It could be I'm finding comfort in worrying about something ELSE at this
time....if you get my meaning.

73,

Bob W7OTJ

On Thu, Apr 2, 2020 at 8:13 AM jim--- via AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb at amsat.org>
wrote:

> Bob Hammond asked (in part):
> > I have my M2 LEO antennas plus a WiMo 23cm helical antenna end-mounted
> on a
> > fiberglass boom with the G-5500.  I also placed a counterbalance lead
> > weight opposite the antennas.
>
> > How many of you with similar antennas and a G-5500 have NOT used a
> > counterbalance?  Any issues?
>
> I would highly recommend against using any substantial antenna arrangement
> on an elevation rotor without it being balanced.  If it is not balanced,
> you are putting far more strain on the gears and motor.  Try this to
> understand the difference.  Take your antenna, and hold it at one end with
> one hand.  Point it at the horizon.  Then rotate it so it points straight
> up.  Now move your hand so it is at the balance point, and repeat the
> demo.  Which one do think is easier?  Don't have an antenna handy, use a
> long piece of pipe, or conduit, or rebar, or even a stick or baseball bat.
>
> 73
> -----
> Jim Walls - K6CCC
> jim at k6ccc.org
>
>
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