How to Clean an Amateur Radio Antenna

Treat amateur radio antennas exposed to the elements with an anti-corrosive material.

As an amateur radio operator, you may have more than one type of antenna, perhaps a mobile antenna for your car or truck, one in your ham station and maybe a vertical or dipole antenna in your backyard. Your antennas need cleaning periodically, especially when constantly exposed to the elements. The main metals for amateur radio antennas include copper or aluminum.

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Steel wool in double "00" or triple "000" grade
Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
Paper towels
Rag (optional)
White distilled vinegar
Water
Plastic container

Instructions

- 1
  
  Remove any corrosion or oxidation from your aluminum, steel or copper antenna and components using steel wool in double "00" fine or triple "000" extra-fine grade. Do not get bits of steel wool into the trap coils, as this can short your antenna out. Use the steel wool only if you see corrosion or oxidation.
- 2
  
  Wipe the antenna off well using water and paper towels or a clean rag.
- 3
  
  Soak a rag or paper towel in isopropyl alcohol. Keep the alcohol away from flames or heat sources while using it and work in a ventilated location. You may also mix a solution of one part vinegar to one part water in a container instead of using alcohol.
- 4
  
  Clean the antenna thoroughly with the alcohol or vinegar solution, then rinse all parts of the antenna well with water. When using the vinegar and water, keep this solution out of the resonant circuits to prevent damage. Resonant circuits pick out certain broadcast signal frequencies.

Tips & Warnings

Use an anti-corrosion product on your antenna and parts after cleaning them to prevent oxidation or corrosion.
Some clean these metals using 1/2 cup of trisodium phosphate (TSP) detergent diluted in 1 gallon of water. If you choose to use TSP, a toxic chemical, wear safety goggles and gloves in a well ventilated location.
If you experience an exposure to TSP, call 911 or call the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Keep this chemical away from children.

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Photo Credit amateur radio aerials image by leafy from Fotolia.com

Comments

Hélder Jul 12, 2011
Easy and effective...works

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How to Clean an Amateur Radio Antenna

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