2013-10-10 Rotator Essentials
Jim Tiderman, N8IDS, presented the basics of rotator function and repair. The excellent and thorough presentation investigated several members of the rotator family tree. Medium duty rotators such as the AR, TR, and CD series were examined first followed by the popular Cornell-Dublier/HyGain/MFJ HAM-M (series 1-5), HAM-II, HAM-III, HAM-IV, and T2X TailTwister heavy duty models. Rotator images, wind and vertical load capacities, braking, control cable details and control box style were shown for each model.
The following is from Rotor Parts and Sales (aka Rotor-Doc) and contains rotator model history information similar to that presented by Jim, N8IDS:
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The second part of the talk went into the depths of rotator construction focussing on the Hy-Gain “HAM” series. Since Jim, N8IDS, has repaired and remanufactured many rotators, he has detailed photos of the inner construction of rotators, especially the HAM series. The HAM series was dissected by means of a series of photos essentially providing an illustrated parts breakdown of every rotator component. The photographic order used an example of a rotator teardown, parts inspection, then finally build-up and test. The flow began with the external view, followed by major sub-assemblies, ending with full screen enlargements of some individual components. To go along with the photos, Jim, N8IDS, provided expert analysis of each subject photo pointing out key performance features, parts differences by model, inspection and cleaning tips, assembly hints, and troubleshooting tricks.
After detailed teardown and build-up, a questions and answer session produced valuable advice on what to do while encountering rotator operating difficulties. Common failure modes was another frequently asked question and answer with appropriate detail from Jim. Jim topped off his expert presentation with a demonstration of an operational cutaway rotator painted in patriotic red, white, and blue. With background of the earlier photographic analysis, members now visualize how numerous static views of internal rotator parts are put into motion while imagining the assembled pieces dancing synchronously to the music of The Blue Danube Waltz.
Members of the DARA Thursday Night Group left the meeting with a wealth of rotator information made possible by a true rotator expert; Jim Tiderman, N8IDS.