Hi Marv,
If the SWR suddenly changed, you've probably got a broken feed wire somewhere. I'd leave the matching section adjustment alone (assuming it was good before), and focus on the connections, starting at the shack end.
It sounds like you have a circularly polarized antenna, in which case it doesn't matter which set of elements are horizontal. In fact, many mount CP antennas in an "X" orientation to minimize the interaction with the supporting boom.
If you want to make adjustments with the antenna off the tower, I find it's best to point it straight into the air to minimize the effects of being near the ground.
Good luck with the debugging,
Greg KO6TH
From: racer5039@q.com To: amsat-bb@amsat.org Date: Sat, 18 Jul 2009 22:53:15 -0500 Subject: [amsat-bb] Antenna Problem ..need some help please
I am having a problem with my home made Beam for 435/437. This may/June the SWR went to 5+ I'm going to get it down and take a look at all the connections and to gama match's. What is the best way to set the gama match's? I have access to an MFJ 269 for adjustments.
Also what set of elements should be forward ? They are offset by 1/2 wave. Should the vert or horz. be the forward set? Make any difference? Also my ts 2000 went down just before field day and needs to go in been quiet around here for too long.
Marv N0FJP
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