in a back brace from a broken back, i managed to very carefully with help from a friend get a 24 foot , 4 inch pvc pipe mounted to the corner of my house and then mounted the maco to this. I was talking to people all over the place. The Maco antenna and the 148 gtl have a special place in my heart.
Thank you for perfect instructions. You would not believe how many people assemble that antenna wrong and incorrect info out there!! Then complain it does not work right. That antenna has been made for over 40 years. When to come to vertical 5/8 ground planes its one of the best. The V58 out performs Antron 99's and IMAX2000's without question. Always remember that all vertical antennas need 4 ground radials to work right. Anyone that tells you different does not know anything about antennas.
Nice antenna! I’ll probably get one when I can. For anyone that can’t afford an antenna, the 102 inch pvc antenna he made works pretty good. That’s what I did and made mine for about 22 bucks. I was into cb as a kid pretty hard core. I got back into it in the last couple years and made all kinds of antennas. I get out around 15 miles or so with the pvc antenna and can listen to skip. Just keep saving your money! You will get there. I think when I’m actually able to buy one, I’m going with the p99. It’s cheap enough and works excellent with the ground plane kit. Had one as a kid and talked for miles! Great video! Thanks for sharing
Thank You! Hope you get there and get one for yourself. I love that you are using Mower Junkies antenna and its working well for you!! He's pretty great, isn't he? Though I may be a little prejudiced. 73's from 268 Mrs Mower Junkie!!
It's just a tad short, but I wouldn't worry about it. I know that you're supposed to set the swr to be best on channel 20 but I usually set mine closer to channel 18 because I do the most talking on the lower channels anyways. When you get up to channels 36 to 40 there's usually SSB operators and I try not to interfere with them if possible. Of course if you use SSB then it's different. My antenna is a little short too at the moment but next time I lower it down I'm going to change the coax and retune it , luckily my 50 foot tower is on a hinge plate and I have an electric winch. That's the way to go. Maco makes a great antenna, I had one many years ago when I first set up a base station. Now I have a Sirio 827 5/8 ground plane, its not the Tornado but the other that has the 8 ground plane radials. I've got it up to about 80 feet to the tip and it works extremely well. Good luck 73.
Congrats man , you’re gonna love this antenna !!! It’s a skip shooting monster for a ground plane !! Love these antennas,, nothing but good things to say about them , I look fwd to owning the 5K watt version soon !!
Thanks for sharing John. Great Antenna, I have a few antennas on the roof and one is a Siro 5/8th ground plane all metal. I usually would say that my A-400 Startduster and the Astro Plane are my favorites for the skip. But on real qrm days when the skip is running, I will switch over to the 5/8th ground plane and do better due to it seems to lower the qrm and bring in the power stations better. Great video John and thanks for sharing the setup and some air time. I take it that is the replacement for the antenna lost in that wind storm that you got hit with. I will share over at the hangout. Have a great day and blessings to you and your family. 73, NY202- Drew.
You have some good antennas there Drew ! Enjoyed hearing the exchange you had with Mower Junkie! Truth is it was not suppose to be a replacement but it worked out well in the end, don't you think? LOL 73's and Blessings back at you and yours, 268 Mrs Mower Junkie.
Well Mr. Mower Junkie, ur video was, well, just outstanding! I've always wondered abt that Maco antenna & know it's a great one; however, when comparing it to my IMAX 2000 (which I've prbly had for at least 10 yrs now), the Maco obviously requires a lot more time to assemble (& I know it'd be worth the extra time); however, with my IMAX, all I had to do was simply screw the 3 sections together, then screw the radials into place (although I no longer use them, since the antenna's now near the top of a really high tree); again, a great video & thanks for showing us how u put it all together (& btw, the fast-forwarding was perfect👍) Best 73's to u & urs from TN🇺🇸😃
Oh wow look at that, I thought my half wave silver rod was big enough he in UK. But this beauty is amazing. Unfortunately here in UK are gardens are tiny and neighbours wouldn't like these and complain. Look forward to seeing some results. I appreciate you Brother. Have yourself a great day. 🙂✌️
Wish I could get my hands on a half wave silver rod over here in Chicago. Spoke to half of Europe on one while in Ireland 🇮🇪 years ago currently using a 1/4 wave mobile with radials but cannot seem to talk skip
The Maco Alfa 5/8's wave ground plane is a great vertical antenna. They out preform Antron 99's and IMAX2000's. They are also good vertical off center dipole antennas. Yes the Antron 99's and IMAX2000's are indeed off center vertical dipole wire antennas. But the outer surface area of the aluminum tubing. Is superior for transmit and receive. Over the copper wire surface inside Antron 99's and IMAX2000's. I have a Maco Alfa 5/8's up tuned to 10 meters at 28.400 with a ratio of 1.0 on my MFJ-269 antennas analyzer. I've also got a Antron 99 up with the ground plane kit. For my test bench. I do like the new style ground plane collar better than the old style like I have. I had another one a few decades ago. And I have another rough one for spare parts. Plus a busted bottom section of a A99 for parts. The Maco Alfa 5/8's used to only cost $130. Now there well over $200. They also work great on 12 and 15 meters. And better with a external antenna tuner. The only other aluminum ground plane vertical antenna that out preformed the Maco Alfa 5/8's. Is a Interceptor 10K ground plane. But they were well over $400. I can't justify the price difference. Especially when you have a antenna farm. Or if your also putting up a beam antenna. I also take the shield wire from RG213/U. And use it instead of the provided smaller wire provided with the Maco. It handles legal limit 1.5KW here in the states just fine. I've even tuned mine almost horizontal and the SWR stay the same when I raised it back vertical. Good video and a good vertical antenna. 73's
Can you please eleaborate on how you used the coax shield wire for the antennae rather than the one supplied with the antennae ? I heard a operator say that when the wire that is supplied with antennae is used the wire needs to be covered with silicone to keep rain water off if it. If not the SWR jumps drastically.
Extending top by 1xinch you would have perfect swr balance on 1&40" not bad. With Maco I found hat in winter time the rain freezes on the sheild wire off ring causing capacitance & a sWR you will also have this happen on a serverly rainy day . Replacing the sheild wire with solid 12 gauge solid coated copper wire will fix this from happening . Ànd if taking down up few times the clamps on groundplanes "the screws" strip out so replace with miniature hose clamps like so in 1970"s & 80's works better . It so s a powerful antenna you hear station they hear you . It is 1.7:1 or 2.1:1 at 27.505 & 26.855 at best this is cause the ring system sets bandwidth just so. Great video ⭐
Lol how ironic is that...you put this video up at the exact time I've decided on buying the same antenna!! Lol well I'm waiting on a test video now🤷♂️. I've heard so many guys complain about how much of a pain it is to set this antenna up...dont seem to be too difficult by the looks lol. 295 Maine waving 👋 73's
@@MowerJunkie I have a friend of mine who has a I-Com 706 MKG the FM/GMRS bands are way out of frequency. Would you be able to work on that type of radio? or know someone who can? I have tried contacting actual repair shops in Texas that work with that type of radio.. but they require a ham license of the radio owner before they will work on it.
Nice antenna, but I wish you would have tried it on CH 20 just for reference. All in all I’m sure it will be a great antenna for you. Keep those videos coming!
it's still on the test pole, 7 feet above the ground. So I haven't played with it much yet. I'm hoping to get it higher soon. Take care, Thanks for watching.
Everything old again is new again, as the saying goes. this is a replica of the old Cushcraft Ringo antenna. It originally didn't come with Radials. I still have mine for 6m and still use it I've had that one since 1975, also had one when I was still in cb. at the same time frame. good antenna. gud job on the video also. tnx es 73.
Actually, THIS is a copy of the Wilson Alpha V 5/8. IT most likely was based on the Cushcraft Ringo 10m antenna. Once upon a time, I had the 2m co-linear version!
@@mstover2809 Yes it is a copy of the Wilson Alpha V58. Wilson also had a 5/8 wave that looked just like the V58 minus the radials, and it was called a V1.
I had one was ok. Then i went to a super penetrater 500 it was ok too. Then i picked up a Sirio 827. Best ground plain i ever had. Both durability and performance. My opinion its better then the maco V5/8's and the super penetrater 500. Sirio is just more durable and RX & TX is better. Thats just my experience with the 3 said antennas. #12. Watkins Glen.ny wavin. 73.
Nice looking antenna i think i might just replace my imax 2000 with one of these just for comparison.. It does look very similar to my avanti sigma 2 although i wont use the sigma just incase it gets damaged as there are no replacement parts these days so this looks to be the next best thing😎🤬
@@MowerJunkie If my memory is correct I think you're running a 1/2 wave antenna or at least you were in one of your videos. Where you will notice the difference is on your weaker local signals and when you shoot skip you'll notice that you will be heard more often. If you're still running a 1/2 wave antenna, document on video some of your weak stations signal strength you hear on a regular basis and then compare that to the MACO. You may not notice a big difference on your strong locals but you probably will notice the difference with your weaker local stations. If the antenna is still on your test pole let me make a few real world suggestions that will make your antenna life much easier with this antenna. The MACO's only weakness is corrosion issues. It's been a while since I've owned one of these antennas and they may have made these changes but if they haven't, do the following: Change out ALL of the nuts and bolts for the tuning ring and the connecting aluminum connecting pieces that couple the tuning ring to the antenna and to ground on the tuning ring out with stainless steel nuts and bolts. These antennas are notorious for corrosion issues due to the nuts and bolts rusting over time. You also have to be careful that water does not enter into the tuning ring because that too will give you grief over time. Before you upgrade and replace the tuning rings nuts and bolts, clean the ever loving daylights out of all of the pieces on the tuning ring and other pieces where it connects to ground and to the antenna itself then once you reassemble it and test it and feel it's good to go, seal all of the mentioned connections with either a small coat of quality liquid rubber or a quality sealant made for metal surfaces. Remember me mentioning water entering the rings? That happens at the crimp point along with the drill holes on the tuning rings where they marry together. This is where sealing them pays off big time! I have seen people use aluminum welding rod that you can melt with a small propane torch seal them shut but the easiest way is just to apply a thin coat of the sealant on the crimped ends and around where they are tied together with the nut and bolt in the center. Aluminum likes to flex with temperature so although those crimped ends on the rings may look tight, given enough time they will eventually allow water into the ring which can detune it and even split it during a freeze. I'll tell you how tuff these antennas are. They can take a direct lightning strike and survive it with very little damage other than the RF connector getting burned because the tuning ring links from the antenna to ground so these antennas are almost bullet proof. I'm speaking with personal experience with these antennas! I had one when I lived in Va and it was hit twice on a house that had a tin roof and both times it didn't damage the antenna or the coax. I always disconnect the radios during storms so I was good there too. Didn't mean to write a book here but I wanted to share that with you. 73's, Flash001USA...
I went by the measurements you gave and I believe I got it set initially. My swr was high when I checked today so I had to extend the very top section 1.5” but it got my swr to 1.35/1.00 between channel 1 & 40. However I talked to a mobile unit 7.5 miles away and had no issues but a base station around the area could barely understand me and said I sounded off frequency.. Any advice? Edit- I went barefoot and was told It sounded great by the local base station but I’ve ran this small box with the old antenna and no issue.
I'm not sure what would cause that, you might get an answer from an amp builder. if the antenna is tuned properly it shouldn't matter if you use 5 watts, or 500 watts it should sound the same. I hope you can figure it out.
@@MowerJunkieI was thinking about it, and I think I had a similar issue once before with the old antenna and it was moisture had gotten in the connector. I had to unscrew it and blow all the water out and it fixed itself. It stormed like a hurricane was coming through last night so that could be possible again and it’s only being an issue when trying to force power through. Your video helped a ton on antenna assembly. I found it easier than the instructions because I could actually see the antenna and not a drawing
I have a question mower junkie, I need the measurement from bottom of antenna to the bracket for the so239... I have a vintage wilson v58 before maco bout them out....the original feed point of the wilson was on a radial...I bought the hardware from maco to convert it to maco. That's all I really need to know,thanks
Mine is on the way mower junkie this is 097 mud flap in Tennessee my a99 went down going to aluminum look forward to talking to you in the skip mud flap out 73s
No matter what I try, I can't seem to get the SWR any lower than a 1.3 on AM. On LSB when I modulate, the SWR swings upwards towards a 2 or higher depending on how loud I modulate. The antenna was assembled by following the instructions in the manual and by the data provided in this video. It's got me baffled for sure. Any suggestions you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
SWR should only be checked on AM or FM without modulation. an SWR meter is calibrated to the output power of the transmitter, if the power is not consistent, the reading will Not be accurate.
I'm confused the assembly instructions states 248 inches from the bottom of the spider/collar to the tip. Your saying from the bottom of the tube to the tip.
I have the vector 4000 in my opinion it's a little bit better than that one but it's just my opinion I have out transmitted my buddy who lives in the area he has the same antenna as you do right there and I have better ears than him at similar Heights the take-off angle on the vector 4000 also is excellent for skip we have repeatedly done these tests with people out in the distance barefoot and I always seem to hear the people that he does not but that still has a very good antenna that 5/8 wave you got there also my friend was having lots of problems setting his swr4 some reason
Hi Mower Junkie, Great Video! Great Antenna! The only thing I will do different when I set up my antenna is I will use copper AntiSeize on ALL joints and connections. It might be a little extra work but to assist with SWR consistency over the long run you might want to dissemble and reassemble it with copper AntiSeize. Wagon Master speaks highly of you. I do not know what state you are in, but I would like to have you make a visit here to TN, when I get mine. Maybe you can make another video here. I also have a spool of Times Microwave LMR400 COAX coax for it (if I don't use hardline). Please try to contact me.
I change out My antennas a lot, The longest I've had one up was only for a year. That's why I don't use any sealers. If I was going to keep it in the air permanently, I would seal it. Take care, 73's from 151 SC.
@@MowerJunkie AntiSeize is not a sealer, It is basically an anti corrosion semi metallic greasy compound that will promote good RF and VSWR and will greatly aid in disassembly. Although you do not ever need it, you would be a fool not to use it if you have access to it (you can get it at any auto parts store in a copper base or an aluminum base) It basically lasts forever. The stuff is a no brainer.
Hi mower junkie. It’s me again Joe up here in Vermont. I’ve been watching your videos and I’ve learned along. I’ve been on CB from way back in the early 70s but I haven’t been on for 15 or 20 years. I need a new antenna I have been looking at that alpha five eights I think that’s what I’m gonna get. Where did you buy yours and thanks again 👍
Is it normal to be a dead short at the 259 connecter either at the radio or the antenna itself? My swrs are screaming. I think I fried the finals in my President Washington
The directions with mine , and it's the same antenna, i read the directions over and over measured and measured. Things dont add up at all. I must be short a piece for the up-right part. It isnt right as it is.
Whenever I get the money I’m buying one of those antennas I need one can’t believe I can’t reach you yet but I’ll because I have a bad radio and bad antenna I Washington It’s all messed up but I do have my good radio galaxy 95T I’ll use as a base to get a better basin radio I need to get this one fixed but don’t have no one up here can fix it I don’t know what quite what’s wrong with it they put a switch on it for upper and lower‘s channels but they’re not working I don’t work it runs 28 MHz instead of the 27 MHz so somethings messed up I got a few 26 MHz shep 73 do you Side band shepfc1 And off the finals
@@MowerJunkie , when I was trustee for the Greater Pittsburgh VHF Society 20 years ago we put one of these up at the transmitter end of our 29.54/64 repeater. With only 100 watts it was a beacon, reaching as far as Tokyo and Sydney and covering all of Europe and South America. It's basically a copy of the Avanti Sigma 5/8. You'll love it, I'm sure.
With all those nice antennas you build, what the heck did you buy one for???, Aaaaaahhh I get it, your an addict, and require an intervention!😏👍 What you should do is assemble that using Copper anti-seize on all metal to metal contact, that will create an excellent corrosion free conductive bond between the aluminum joints!
@@MowerJunkie I like the maco But where I live we get bad storm's So I got a collosis from 5 10 out Chicago it build like a tank a bit more $ but I think it worth it
Well he doesn't need an intervention just yet, maybe I do. LOL! This was a Fathers Day gift, and its going on the house permanently, I hope, he still has his test pole, his Garage and his telephone pole for new builds, he'll be okay! 73's from 268 Mrs Mower Junkie.
@@barbarahayescabral1353 Mrs. Mower Junky, its a pleasure to informaly meet you. Awesome Fathers day gift to say the least. How is MJ comming along with the new addition? (Antenna) tell MJ to get a progress report for us viewers, inquiring minds want to know!😏✌
in a back brace from a broken back, i managed to very carefully with help from a friend get a 24 foot , 4 inch pvc pipe mounted to the corner of my house and then mounted the maco to this. I was talking to people all over the place. The Maco antenna and the 148 gtl have a special place in my heart.
Thank you for perfect instructions. You would not believe how many people assemble that antenna wrong and incorrect info out there!! Then complain it does not work right. That antenna has been made for over 40 years. When to come to vertical 5/8 ground planes its one of the best. The V58 out performs Antron 99's and IMAX2000's without question. Always remember that all vertical antennas need 4 ground radials to work right. Anyone that tells you different does not know anything about antennas.
Nice antenna! I’ll probably get one when I can. For anyone that can’t afford an antenna, the 102 inch pvc antenna he made works pretty good. That’s what I did and made mine for about 22 bucks. I was into cb as a kid pretty hard core. I got back into it in the last couple years and made all kinds of antennas. I get out around 15 miles or so with the pvc antenna and can listen to skip. Just keep saving your money! You will get there. I think when I’m actually able to buy one, I’m going with the p99. It’s cheap enough and works excellent with the ground plane kit. Had one as a kid and talked for miles! Great video! Thanks for sharing
Thank You! Hope you get there and get one for yourself. I love that you are using Mower Junkies antenna and its working well for you!! He's pretty great, isn't he? Though I may be a little prejudiced. 73's from 268 Mrs Mower Junkie!!
@@barbarahayescabral1353 Thank you for you kind words 😊
A guy in the next town over uses a 102 whip and tuned radials and gets out good.
Great well focused video with great instructions M.J.Any one who is overwhelmed with all the parts has great help.
Thank You so much! Take care, 73's from 151 SC.
I've had one of those up for about 12 years now. I use it on ham and CB...great antenna!
You are going to love the new antenna. I have used a V58 in two different installations, they are great. You will never go back to a stick. Cheers
Very cool! even at 7 feet off the ground, I already love this antenna. Take care 390, 73's from UDX-151
Looks awesome chap!! Look forward to hearing you over here in England bud!!
i been looking at this beast of an antenna, i do like my 5/8th waves, i hope it gets you out good i see no issues with it. great stuff.
Great antennas. I have one, and have helped three people assemble/install 'em. Enjoyed your video, too. Thanks.
It's just a tad short, but I wouldn't worry about it. I know that you're supposed to set the swr to be best on channel 20 but I usually set mine closer to channel 18 because I do the most talking on the lower channels anyways. When you get up to channels 36 to 40 there's usually SSB operators and I try not to interfere with them if possible. Of course if you use SSB then it's different. My antenna is a little short too at the moment but next time I lower it down I'm going to change the coax and retune it , luckily my 50 foot tower is on a hinge plate and I have an electric winch. That's the way to go. Maco makes a great antenna, I had one many years ago when I first set up a base station. Now I have a Sirio 827 5/8 ground plane, its not the Tornado but the other that has the 8 ground plane radials. I've got it up to about 80 feet to the tip and it works extremely well. Good luck 73.
I have this same antenna hooked up to my Washington, great antenna and easy to setup. 73’s
Nice and I can't wait for the test comparisons.
Vary nice overview my friend - Planning on getting this antenna for my 10 meter ham radio and appreciate your overview!
You're going to be happy with the performance of that antenna.
Nicely done. 73's too MJ.
Congrats man , you’re gonna love this antenna !!! It’s a skip shooting monster for a ground plane !! Love these antennas,, nothing but good things to say about them , I look fwd to owning the 5K watt version soon !!
You will! Thanks for the Congrats, John had a great Fathers Day didn't he?? 73's from 268 Mrs Mower Junkie
Nice! I didn't know You were planning on getting one. I still only have it 7 feet off the ground, But I already love this antenna.
Thanks for sharing John. Great Antenna, I have a few antennas on the roof and one is a Siro 5/8th ground plane all metal. I usually would say that my A-400 Startduster and the Astro Plane are my favorites for the skip. But on real qrm days when the skip is running, I will switch over to the 5/8th ground plane and do better due to it seems to lower the qrm and bring in the power stations better. Great video John and thanks for sharing the setup and some air time. I take it that is the replacement for the antenna lost in that wind storm that you got hit with. I will share over at the hangout. Have a great day and blessings to you and your family. 73, NY202- Drew.
Thanks Drew. Yup, this antenna will be going on my house. Have a good week NY202, 73's
You have some good antennas there Drew ! Enjoyed hearing the exchange you had with Mower Junkie! Truth is it was not suppose to be a replacement but it worked out well in the end, don't you think? LOL 73's and Blessings back at you and yours, 268 Mrs Mower Junkie.
One awsome 5/8 Base Antenna 💯👍🙋♂️
That new antenna looks the bizz John! Can’t wait for the results when it’s on the house! 73 176 Chris Scotland 🏴
Thanks Chris, it will be going up as soon as the weather cools down a little. Thanks for watching, 73's
Looking good sir! It is interesting to see you assemble, rather than build an antenna. I can't wait to see the end results. 73's Big Chief
lol, sometimes the easy way can be the best way! Take care Big Chief, 73's from 151 SC.
Well Mr. Mower Junkie, ur video was, well, just outstanding! I've always wondered abt that Maco antenna & know it's a great one; however, when comparing it to my IMAX 2000 (which I've prbly had for at least 10 yrs now), the Maco obviously requires a lot more time to assemble (& I know it'd be worth the extra time); however, with my IMAX, all I had to do was simply screw the 3 sections together, then screw the radials into place (although I no longer use them, since the antenna's now near the top of a really high tree); again, a great video & thanks for showing us how u put it all together (& btw, the fast-forwarding was perfect👍) Best 73's to u & urs from TN🇺🇸😃
Thank You so much! Take care, 73's from 151 SC.
I had one years ago, didn't hold up in the wind to good....Cheerz!
I ordered one today after I seen the performance!
Good stuff M.J...enjoy
Great antenna, I've had mine up for 2 yrs and I talk all over. 73s, 270 Michigan.
Awesome! Take care 270, 73's from 151 SC.
Oh wow look at that, I thought my half wave silver rod was big enough he in UK. But this beauty is amazing. Unfortunately here in UK are gardens are tiny and neighbours wouldn't like these and complain. Look forward to seeing some results. I appreciate you Brother. Have yourself a great day. 🙂✌️
Thanks Tripple-Jay. don't knock that Silver Rod, I have one, They are a great antenna. Take care, Thanks for watching.
Wish I could get my hands on a half wave silver rod over here in Chicago. Spoke to half of Europe on one while in Ireland 🇮🇪 years ago currently using a 1/4 wave mobile with radials but cannot seem to talk skip
The Maco Alfa 5/8's wave ground plane is a great vertical antenna. They out preform Antron 99's and IMAX2000's. They are also good vertical off center dipole antennas. Yes the Antron 99's and IMAX2000's are indeed off center vertical dipole wire antennas. But the outer surface area of the aluminum tubing. Is superior for transmit and receive. Over the copper wire surface inside Antron 99's and IMAX2000's. I have a Maco Alfa 5/8's up tuned to 10 meters at 28.400 with a ratio of 1.0 on my MFJ-269 antennas analyzer. I've also got a Antron 99 up with the ground plane kit. For my test bench. I do like the new style ground plane collar better than the old style like I have. I had another one a few decades ago. And I have another rough one for spare parts. Plus a busted bottom section of a A99 for parts. The Maco Alfa 5/8's used to only cost $130. Now there well over $200. They also work great on 12 and 15 meters. And better with a external antenna tuner. The only other aluminum ground plane vertical antenna that out preformed the Maco Alfa 5/8's. Is a Interceptor 10K ground plane. But they were well over $400. I can't justify the price difference. Especially when you have a antenna farm. Or if your also putting up a beam antenna. I also take the shield wire from RG213/U. And use it instead of the provided smaller wire provided with the Maco. It handles legal limit 1.5KW here in the states just fine. I've even tuned mine almost horizontal and the SWR stay the same when I raised it back vertical. Good video and a good vertical antenna. 73's
Can you please eleaborate on how you used the coax shield wire for the antennae rather than the one supplied with the antennae ? I heard a operator say that when the wire that is supplied with antennae is used the wire needs to be covered with silicone to keep rain water off if it. If not the SWR jumps drastically.
@@rondellschuyler7074 hello are you asking me this question?
Хороших связей коллега!
I have the V5000 model. Great Antenna. Price is good.
Looks really strong I love the design kinda like the tornado I run but way a lot better
it is very well built, I'm hoping to have it up on My house later this week. I can't wait to start using it! Take care 968, Thanks for watching.
Great video 📹
I wish I could have seen it being used...it looks like a monster
Nice setup...
I have the Maco V58 and love it. 26ft in the air and talk skip all over. 335 Illinois
Copy that 335, this one is going to be at about the same height as Yours. Take care, 73's from 151 SC.
Ótimo vídeo gualidade total parabéns guerreiros bazuka Foz do Iguaçu pr Brasil 🇧🇷🦈 73 🇧🇷🦈🦈
Top Work
It seems a high quality antenna.
I put my A 99 up couple weeks ago working well.
Extending top by 1xinch you would have perfect swr balance on 1&40" not bad.
With Maco I found hat in winter time the rain freezes on the sheild wire off ring causing capacitance & a sWR you will also have this happen on a serverly
rainy day .
Replacing the sheild wire with solid
12 gauge solid coated copper wire will fix this from happening .
Ànd if taking down up few times the clamps on groundplanes "the screws" strip out so replace with miniature hose clamps like so in 1970"s & 80's works better .
It so s a powerful antenna you hear station they hear you . It is 1.7:1 or 2.1:1 at 27.505 & 26.855 at best this is cause the ring system sets bandwidth just so.
Great video ⭐
How did you connect the bigger wire? Did your solder? Ty
looks good
Lol how ironic is that...you put this video up at the exact time I've decided on buying the same antenna!! Lol well I'm waiting on a test video now🤷♂️. I've heard so many guys complain about how much of a pain it is to set this antenna up...dont seem to be too difficult by the looks lol. 295 Maine waving 👋 73's
Take Your time, and follow the instructions, and You'll see how easy it is to assemble. Take care 295, 73's from 151 SC.
Great video..I’m thinking the v58 or the Victor 4000…but I’ll be putting one up within the month…post some DX vids of the v58 in auction please
Great how to video Thanks .. do you know the size of the base end tube of the antenna?
i got the same antenna on my tower i love it great ears nd a great dxer
You need to replace all the bolts with stainless steel. Had to take mine down after a year and replace rusted bolts.
Good video mr mower junkie that's a nice antenna Good evening to you and the mrs hillbilly in the bam waving
Thanks Hillbilly, 73's from Mr. and Mrs Mower Junkie.
You Can't beat old school Trancivers and Antennas
Nice...
Excellent antenna... toss all the hardware and go with SS hose clamps. aluminum rings stretch and come loose.. ss hose clams and I never looked back.
Maco is a very good antennae with less white noise. The tram is a good DX skip antennae.
Giving those measurements is going to help a lot of people.
I hope so, I wanted to show that it's a lot easier to put together than it looks.
Pretty sweet antenna, now maybe you will get over all that noise and I can hear you here in Tennessee. 73's WWB919CCT waving
Thanks, I hope We get to talk soon. Take care WWB919CCT, 73's from 151 SC.
@@MowerJunkie I have a friend of mine who has a I-Com 706 MKG the FM/GMRS bands are way out of frequency. Would you be able to work on that type of radio? or know someone who can? I have tried contacting actual repair shops in Texas that work with that type of radio.. but they require a ham license of the radio owner before they will work on it.
Nice antenna, but I wish you would have tried it on CH 20 just for reference. All in all I’m sure it will be a great antenna for you. Keep those videos coming!
the SWR on channel 20 is 1.1 Thanks for watching, 73's
Is that regular hose clamp holding the antenna sections together
My jolly them radials are HUGE how is it performing ? And different from the sirio 827 which worked really well back here in the UK .
it's still on the test pole, 7 feet above the ground. So I haven't played with it much yet. I'm hoping to get it higher soon. Take care, Thanks for watching.
Everything old again is new again, as the saying goes. this is a replica of the old Cushcraft Ringo antenna. It originally didn't come with Radials. I still have mine for 6m and still use it I've had that one since 1975, also had one when I was still in cb. at the same time frame. good antenna. gud job on the video also. tnx es 73.
Actually, THIS is a copy of the Wilson Alpha V 5/8. IT most likely was based on the Cushcraft Ringo 10m antenna. Once upon a time, I had the 2m co-linear version!
@@mstover2809 Yes it is a copy of the Wilson Alpha V58. Wilson also had a 5/8 wave that looked just like the V58 minus the radials, and it was called a V1.
I had one was ok. Then i went to a super penetrater 500 it was ok too. Then i picked up a Sirio 827. Best ground plain i ever had. Both durability and performance. My opinion its better then the maco V5/8's and the super penetrater 500. Sirio is just more durable and RX & TX is better.
Thats just my experience with the 3 said antennas.
#12. Watkins Glen.ny wavin. 73.
My old 1970s avanti sigma 5/8 blows away pretty much any antenna ive owned..
Your SWR looked right on the money. How far can you go above ch.40 before it's too high? (curious)
Thanks, I've only had it on a 40 channel radio, So I don't know yet how far it will go.
Nice looking antenna i think i might just replace my imax 2000 with one of these just for comparison..
It does look very similar to my avanti sigma 2 although i wont use the sigma just incase it gets damaged as there are no replacement parts these days so this looks to be the next best thing😎🤬
Now that you've had a chance to use the antenna how do you like it? Can you tell a difference in this antenna compared to your last antenna?
I haven't mounted it on My house yet, So I haven't used it much yet.
@@MowerJunkie If my memory is correct I think you're running a 1/2 wave antenna or at least you were in one of your videos. Where you will notice the difference is on your weaker local signals and when you shoot skip you'll notice that you will be heard more often. If you're still running a 1/2 wave antenna, document on video some of your weak stations signal strength you hear on a regular basis and then compare that to the MACO. You may not notice a big difference on your strong locals but you probably will notice the difference with your weaker local stations. If the antenna is still on your test pole let me make a few real world suggestions that will make your antenna life much easier with this antenna. The MACO's only weakness is corrosion issues. It's been a while since I've owned one of these antennas and they may have made these changes but if they haven't, do the following: Change out ALL of the nuts and bolts for the tuning ring and the connecting aluminum connecting pieces that couple the tuning ring to the antenna and to ground on the tuning ring out with stainless steel nuts and bolts. These antennas are notorious for corrosion issues due to the nuts and bolts rusting over time. You also have to be careful that water does not enter into the tuning ring because that too will give you grief over time. Before you upgrade and replace the tuning rings nuts and bolts, clean the ever loving daylights out of all of the pieces on the tuning ring and other pieces where it connects to ground and to the antenna itself then once you reassemble it and test it and feel it's good to go, seal all of the mentioned connections with either a small coat of quality liquid rubber or a quality sealant made for metal surfaces. Remember me mentioning water entering the rings? That happens at the crimp point along with the drill holes on the tuning rings where they marry together. This is where sealing them pays off big time! I have seen people use aluminum welding rod that you can melt with a small propane torch seal them shut but the easiest way is just to apply a thin coat of the sealant on the crimped ends and around where they are tied together with the nut and bolt in the center. Aluminum likes to flex with temperature so although those crimped ends on the rings may look tight, given enough time they will eventually allow water into the ring which can detune it and even split it during a freeze. I'll tell you how tuff these antennas are. They can take a direct lightning strike and survive it with very little damage other than the RF connector getting burned because the tuning ring links from the antenna to ground so these antennas are almost bullet proof. I'm speaking with personal experience with these antennas! I had one when I lived in Va and it was hit twice on a house that had a tin roof and both times it didn't damage the antenna or the coax. I always disconnect the radios during storms so I was good there too. Didn't mean to write a book here but I wanted to share that with you. 73's, Flash001USA...
I went by the measurements you gave and I believe I got it set initially.
My swr was high when I checked today so I had to extend the very top section 1.5” but it got my swr to 1.35/1.00 between channel 1 & 40. However I talked to a mobile unit 7.5 miles away and had no issues but a base station around the area could barely understand me and said I sounded off frequency..
Any advice?
Edit- I went barefoot and was told
It sounded great by the local base station but I’ve ran this small box with the old antenna and no issue.
I'm not sure what would cause that, you might get an answer from an amp builder. if the antenna is tuned properly it shouldn't matter if you use 5 watts, or 500 watts it should sound the same. I hope you can figure it out.
@@MowerJunkieI was thinking about it, and I think I had a similar issue once before with the old antenna and it was moisture had gotten in the connector. I had to unscrew it and blow all the water out and it fixed itself. It stormed like a hurricane was coming through last night so that could be possible again and it’s only being an issue when trying to force power through.
Your video helped a ton on antenna assembly. I found it easier than the instructions because I could actually see the antenna and not a drawing
I have a question mower junkie, I need the measurement from bottom of antenna to the bracket for the so239... I have a vintage wilson v58 before maco bout them out....the original feed point of the wilson was on a radial...I bought the hardware from maco to convert it to maco. That's all I really need to know,thanks
Basically the hole is not drilled to attach that bracket, and it's not in the instruction manual for the maco because that hole is pre drilled
Mine is on the way mower junkie this is 097 mud flap in Tennessee my a99 went down going to aluminum look forward to talking to you in the skip mud flap out 73s
No matter what I try, I can't seem to get the SWR any lower than a 1.3 on AM. On LSB when I modulate, the SWR swings upwards towards a 2 or higher depending on how loud I modulate. The antenna was assembled by following the instructions in the manual and by the data provided in this video. It's got me baffled for sure. Any suggestions you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
SWR should only be checked on AM or FM without modulation. an SWR meter is calibrated to the output power of the transmitter, if the power is not consistent, the reading will Not be accurate.
I'm confused the assembly instructions states 248 inches from the bottom of the spider/collar to the tip. Your saying from the bottom of the tube to the tip.
If this has tuning rings .bet you can get a 1 flat,however 1 to 3 is good too
I have the vector 4000 in my opinion it's a little bit better than that one but it's just my opinion I have out transmitted my buddy who lives in the area he has the same antenna as you do right there and I have better ears than him at similar Heights the take-off angle on the vector 4000 also is excellent for skip we have repeatedly done these tests with people out in the distance barefoot and I always seem to hear the people that he does not but that still has a very good antenna that 5/8 wave you got there also my friend was having lots of problems setting his swr4 some reason
Hi Mower Junkie, Great Video! Great Antenna! The only thing I will do different when I set up my antenna is I will use copper AntiSeize on ALL joints and connections. It might be a little extra work but to assist with SWR consistency over the long run you might want to dissemble and reassemble it with copper AntiSeize. Wagon Master speaks highly of you. I do not know what state you are in, but I would like to have you make a visit here to TN, when I get mine. Maybe you can make another video here. I also have a spool of Times Microwave LMR400 COAX coax for it (if I don't use hardline). Please try to contact me.
I change out My antennas a lot, The longest I've had one up was only for a year. That's why I don't use any sealers. If I was going to keep it in the air permanently, I would seal it. Take care, 73's from 151 SC.
@@MowerJunkie AntiSeize is not a sealer, It is basically an anti corrosion semi metallic greasy compound that will promote good RF and VSWR and will greatly aid in disassembly. Although you do not ever need it, you would be a fool not to use it if you have access to it (you can get it at any auto parts store in a copper base or an aluminum base) It basically lasts forever. The stuff is a no brainer.
Now this is to weird, I was looking at this antenna last night.
As usual, everything is available in the U.S. but hard to get in Canada! It seems like nothing changes since I was small (maly).
Would have been nice to see the SWR on channel 20.
Hello there, where can i buy this antenna. I like this antenna. I live in the northern Norway. ❤
Would love to see a shootout between your Maco 5/8 and a MAX 2000 optimizer !!!
Sorry, But I don't have a Max 2000.
Sir, What is the ROUND size of maco hoop ring?
I’ve talked all over Us and talked to London England on lsb 73 s all and hope hearing from yah Mower junky
This antenna with the tuning ring looks like a Ringo Antenna but with ground plane radials
Hi mower junkie. It’s me again Joe up here in Vermont. I’ve been watching your videos and I’ve learned along. I’ve been on CB from way back in the early 70s but I haven’t been on for 15 or 20 years. I need a new antenna I have been looking at that alpha five eights I think that’s what I’m gonna get. Where did you buy yours and thanks again 👍
Hi Joe, I bought my Maco V58 on Ebay. they had the lowest price on it.
@@MowerJunkie I couldn’t find it on eBay
Is it normal to be a dead short at the 259 connecter either at the radio or the antenna itself? My swrs are screaming. I think I fried the finals in my President Washington
Yes it will show a dead short, but for rf it is not a short. It is normal
Where did you order the antenna 📡from? 73's from the upstate we 👋
I ordered mine from Ebay. Thanks for watching, Take care.
I'm going to buy one, thanks for the video. Where is the cheapest place to purchase this antenna?
I bought mine off of Ebay, it was the cheapest place I could find it. Thanks for watching, Take care.
@@MowerJunkie thanks sir, found a Maco V58 on Walcott Radio's website for $162 free shipping. Cheapest I have found so far.
Happy with it?
Is the end of the video the final height you had it at?
the last time I used this antenna it was 36 feet off the ground.
how long dose the elements has to be
The directions with mine , and it's the same antenna, i read the directions over and over measured and measured. Things dont add up at all. I must be short a piece for the up-right part. It isnt right as it is.
I put up a antron was a hard decision between the two
That was the best antenna I’ve ever had, until it took a direct lightning hit. I miss it.
Sorry for Your loss, I hope You can get another one. Take care, Thanks for watching.
Hi bro, can you send me the specification for this antenna, please an thanks watching from Jamaica west Indies !!
"Out of many, one people" 73 brother, from London
Hopefully we can make contact now 255 Bamberg said that
I hope so, But We are 70 miles apart so it still might not happen. Take care 255, I'll be listening for You.
How long are the radials?
The radials are a little over 8.5 foot long.
I hope stay between 26mhz between 27mhz i would make this macov5000 weatherproof and waterproof.
May ask sir how much is that antenna?
with shipping and tax, the total price was about $210
Are you from NY ? what a heavy accent you have ...what are you doing in NC?
I'm from the Boston area, I moved to SC. to get away from the snow. Thanks for watching, Take care.
Whenever I get the money I’m buying one of those antennas I need one can’t believe I can’t reach you yet but I’ll because I have a bad radio and bad antenna I Washington It’s all messed up but I do have my good radio galaxy 95T I’ll use as a base to get a better basin radio I need to get this one fixed but don’t have no one up here can fix it I don’t know what quite what’s wrong with it they put a switch on it for upper and lower‘s channels but they’re not working I don’t work it runs 28 MHz instead of the 27 MHz so somethings messed up I got a few 26 MHz shep 73 do you Side band shepfc1 And off the finals
Now you're talking! There's no substitute for aluminum.
lol, Thanks for watching.
@@MowerJunkie , when I was trustee for the Greater Pittsburgh VHF Society 20 years ago we put one of these up at the transmitter end of our 29.54/64 repeater. With only 100 watts it was a beacon, reaching as far as Tokyo and Sydney and covering all of Europe and South America. It's basically a copy of the Avanti Sigma 5/8. You'll love it, I'm sure.
This antenna is £239 in 🇬🇧
with shipping, it cost me about $210.
@@MowerJunkie it equates from sterling to £293 dollars,but it is an impressive antenna
With all those nice antennas you build, what the heck did you buy one for???, Aaaaaahhh I get it, your an addict, and require an intervention!😏👍
What you should do is assemble that using Copper anti-seize on all metal to metal contact, that will create an excellent corrosion free conductive bond between the aluminum joints!
I've heard so many good reports on these antennas, That I just had to try one. No intervention needed........Yet!
Thanks for watching, 73's
@@MowerJunkie I like the maco
But where I live we get bad storm's
So I got a collosis from 5 10 out Chicago it build like a tank a bit more $ but I think it worth it
Well he doesn't need an intervention just yet, maybe I do. LOL! This was a Fathers Day gift, and its going on the house permanently, I hope, he still has his test pole, his Garage and his telephone pole for new builds, he'll be okay! 73's from 268 Mrs Mower Junkie.
@@barbarahayescabral1353 Mrs. Mower Junky, its a pleasure to informaly meet you. Awesome Fathers day gift to say the least. How is MJ comming along with the new addition? (Antenna) tell MJ to get a progress report for us viewers, inquiring minds want to know!😏✌
Is that mine? 😉
Nice Try!!! LOL!!!! But looking forward to having you as a South Carolinian Neighbor. 73's from 268 Mrs Mower Junkie!
@@barbarahayescabral1353 lol I don't want a store bought antenna. I need a genuine homemade Mower Junkie antenna. (and some of your lasagna 😁)