In a message to Wayne Sarosi  Bruce LeGrande wrote:
 > WS> SUBJECT: ELEMENT MOUNTING FOR VHF BEAMS
 > WS> By using 1.25 inch aluminum channel I was able to notch the channel
 > WS> and mount it over the elements. With the screws for the elements
 > WS> passing through the channel and through the elements I was able to
 BL> Wayne,
 BL>   If I have the correct mental picture of this, the bolts that
 BL> you use to attach the channel (upside down) to the top of the
 BL> boom, go through the channel, the element AND the boom - correct ???
The look like this: (end view)
                           __x__
                   ========|===|========
                           (   )
So much for ascii! The screw is at the x and goes down through the
channel to the boom "( )". The nut would be on the bottom of the boom.
 BL>   If this is the case and as the holes for said bolts are
 BL> vertical it should have MUCH! less weakening effect when 'end to
 BL> end' (rather center to end) droop is considered, than if the
 BL> holes were to be drilled horizontally through the boom for the
 BL> elements, weakening the structure at those points.
That's the idea plus you can remove broken elements with ease for
replacement if mother nature get nasty.
 BL>   My question is, what would you recommend for a max dia for the
 BL> bolts that pass through the channel/elements/boom (boom dia = ???) ?! 
 BL> What size/grade/alloy bolts did YOU (would you) use to be the
 BL> most efficient/reliable/lasting ?  What other fastener hardware
 BL> would you recommend (ie lock washers, etc) ?
I use locking nuts (ones with the plastic insert). For 2m and 1.25 boom
I use #6 stainless screws and washers. Everything is stainless
for hardware (I live in FL by the Atlantic). You can use anything you 
wish but don't go too big or too small. Everything depends on your
area. Winds here are not like KS or TX. It is not cold here like ND or UT
or rainy like HI. You have to make a best guess for what you need.
-WS, KB4YLY
 
 BL> Sincerely,
 BL>           Bruce
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