I've been researching how to build an antenna mast out of readily available materials. I've looked at the all metal tilt over mast using schedule 40 pipe, and that remains an option. Only problem is that I would need to get someone to do the welding for me.
Then I came across this : »
s3com.net/masts.htmlThe basic premise
1) Put a long wood post in the ground. The person on the site used a 20ft long 4x4.
2) Use a strap hinge on the top to allow for tilting over when maintenance is needed.
3) Use EMT pipe bolted together for the metal part of the mast. The lower part of the pipe that overlaps the 4x4 wood post are bolted together when the mast is erect.
I'm thinking about going with this design, but I would want to build it stronger that what the person on the site is doing. I also don't think I'd need the gin poles.
My upgrade thoughts.
1) Use a 20ft 6x6 post buried 5ft, and use some bags of quickrete. Ultimate would be to use four 16ft 2x8's and four 8ft 2x8's to create a 24ft long limited beam.
2) Use a single piece of 21ft long x 1 5/8", commercial quality chain link fence top rail vs bolting together smaller pieces of EMT. I only need 30ft of height.
3) Use tube straps to attach pipe to wood post?
Any other recommendations?