Glendora Emergency Response Communications

The Story of the Tilted Tower, by Mark Hayden KF6DSA

Aug 28, 2007

The Story of the Tilted Tower

A few months ago, Richard, KG6TRD noticed a ham tower in eastern Glendora that was in a dangerous position and looked to be ready to crash. See photo at left. The 35 foot one piece home brew tower is bent in an arc and is leaning precariously over the roof. It has partially separated from its concrete base and looks to be mostly supported by a large shrub or tree. Inquiring with the home owner, a non-ham, the tower was apparently bent over during a wind storm earlier in the year. He had no plans for the removal of the tower, but welcomed any suggestions. Here are some of the suggestions from GERC hams on the removal of the tower that I thought you would find interesting.

Mark, is this yours?

I would suggest getting a small crane out to get it down.

Keith

Hi Mark,

Let's see some better pictures. Show the base where it is broken, a closer picture of the tower, etc..

With these pictures the only thing you can say is get a crane.

Wow!

This is definitely the proverbial pickle. Just as a start, I would tie the base to the ground using large stakes or anchoring into the concrete pad. Next I would tie the mast together at the bend to make sure it does not separate. Then I would attempt to secure aircraft steel cables as high on the tower as I could get them (using a extension ladder, you may even guy the extension ladder to reach higher) starting with the side away from the lean. This would hopefully stabilize the tower enough so it won't swing wildly if it falls. After that? maybe put some tension on the windward guy cables and see if you can pull the tower more in your yard. At this point it is going to be a controlled fall. Start cutting off sections (from the top) and be sure not to be in the fall line if the antenna starts to move.

Better yet, hire a crane!

Wild, but I would try to stabilize it right away!

GOOD LUCK!

Rob
KE6YGF

Mark,

Cut the bush a little at a time and tie the mast off with rope and as you cut the bush try to lower it down.

Jim
KG6TQT
Hi, Mark.
Sorry I can't help. Probably Dave Bassett has a crane to borrow. (626) 794-7973.
-- May.