The latest video from Ham Radio Rookie shows you how to weatherproof your Fara-J antenna with simple, cost-effective materials. Perfect for hams who want their gear to endure the elements—without fuss or fancy gear.
Why Waterproof Your Antenna?
Failing to seal your antenna’s connections properly can lead to water intrusion, corrosion, and eventual signal loss. A little moisture can wreak havoc on both your coax and connector over time—especially in areas with shifting temperatures or humidity.
What You’ll Need
- ScotchGard or similar water-resistant tape (or heat-shrink tubing with adhesive).YouTube
- The Fara-J antenna itself, known for its lightweight design and excellent VHF/UHF performance.YouTube+1
- (Optional) Basic tools for applying tape or heat-shrink.
Step-by-Step Waterproofing Guide
- Clean the Connection Surfaces. Ensure the BNC (or other) connector surfaces are free from dust, grease, or old tape.
- Apply Waterproofing Layer.
Wrap a generous layer of ScotchGard around the connector seam, ensuring it overlaps well and covers all exposed metal. Alternatively, use heat-shrink tubing with a built-in adhesive lining for a snug, weather-tight seal. - Ensure Complete Coverage. Overlap the tape or tubing onto adjacent coax and antenna surfaces to create a continuous barrier against moisture.
- Inspect the Seal. Give the taped area a little tug—your waterproofing should stay secure and flexible. If using heat-shrink, gently heat the tubing so that the adhesive flows and seals any potential gaps.
Keeping your Fara-J antenna dry doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few minutes of prep and the right materials, you can protect your connectors from moisture, corrosion, and performance loss—keeping your station running strong through every season.
The important thing is taking that extra step to protect your gear so you can spend more time on the air—and less time on repairs.