On Thu, 21 May 2009 21:17:28 EDT, TexasRF@aol.com said:
This is certainly a novel approach to making UG21 connectors work with LMR400 cable. But, considering you can buy brand new N connectors with silver plated center pin for only $5.95 (at Texas Towers) it seems like a lot of work to maybe reuse an old connector. New UG21 connectors cost as much as one that fits properly so there is no cost savings going that route.
I had a call from a ham at Dayton this year that said people in the flea market were (once again?) selling 7/8" hardline connectors for $35/ea OR MORE -- USED! These were still on chunks of 7/8" that were obviously removed by a tower crew. (Sawsall...)
I recently ordered some connectors from Hutton and got the wrong ones... 7/8" Andrews corrugated connectors came instead of the odd-ball CommScope smooth-wall stuff I was trying to get. $25 brand new from Hutton, and that was without any serious discount of any kind.
I'm always amazed that hams don't shop before going to hamfests... P.T. Barnum said "There's a sucker born every minute", and he was right. $25 may still be high, but $35 for old used junk that will likely need a new o-ring and other repairs... is ridiculous.
Connector prices have really fallen in the down economy and low commodities prices... stock up now... they'll go sky high again in a few years. As usual...
Nate WY0X -- Nate Duehr nate@natetech.com