Antenna delamination problems

[mikeybc101]

I have a boat with one of those big floppy antennas and the antenna has delaminated. So much that if you touch it it sends fiberglass splinters into your leg or whatever touches it. Is there a way to fix this without buying another antenna? Would taping it or covering it with some plastic sheething affect the reception? Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Pierutrus]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

Try "heat shrink", I don't know if they make it in clear, but it will not affect operation.

 

[Pierutrus]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

oh, and welcome to IBOATS

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

replace it. it is a hazard on the boat.

 

[bhammer]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

As tashasdaddy said, you need to replace it. Think what happens when it fully breaks off and goes a flying. If you trailer the boat, it could make for another problem all together. Heat shrink will keep the fiberglass splinters but it will not replace the strength of the original glass. I'd hate for that to get loose on my boat with people aboard.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

or break off into the water and a skier, get skewered.

 

[mikeybc101]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

thanks for the welcome and your input. let me clear it up a bit. It is not broken or splintered its just that the waxy coating that is on the outside is worn off and you tend to get fiberglass splinters when in contact with it. the antenna still has full flexibility. do you still think i should trash it or try the plastic wrap. im on a budget here and the antenna is safe to use other than the fibers in my leg, but if i have to replace it i guess i just found a use for my refund.

 

[Pierutrus]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

Like I said, "Heat Shrink", get you thru!

 

[bhammer]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

I don't understand. Do you have and pics? You say that the plastic is coming off but you say fiberglass splineters. If the fiberglass is sererating, then I would replace it IMO. If it is only the plastic coating, then heat shrink it. But, if it is starting to come aprat, I'd replace it.

 

[Barracuda101]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

welcome mikeybc 101

 

[Pierutrus]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

He's just getting "the" slight fiberglass shedding....
Cover with "Heat Shrink", and I found out today, they do have clear, or what ever color you prefer. Up to an inch and 1/8.
The heat shrink will get you through for about 2 years.....
Start looking for a replacement.
Been there, Done that!

 

[mikeybc101]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

Exactly what i was trying to convey. Now my question is where do i buy the srink wrap.

 

[bhammer]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

Sorry I misunderstood your thoughts... You can pick up heat shrink at places like Radio Shack, Fry's, Home Depot, Lowes and many places that carry electrical subcomponents. You can also generally find it at places that do audio installations. Most of these places will carry red, black, white and I suppose clear. Use a heat gun or small butane blow torch to shrink it.

 

[thurps]

Re: Antenna delamination problems

Ware a dust mask. Sand lightly. Apply coat or two of exterior Urathine, Varathane, etc..