good technique for installing PL 259 plugs (VHF Radio)

T

thataway

Active member
This was posted on The Hull Truth today, and is a slightly different technique than I have used, but it seems much simpler and better:
http://www.thehulltruth.com/forums/thre ... 92&posts=4

Basically it solders the braid at the top of the inner adaptor, and trims the braid off so that there is no electrical connection on the braid and outer fitting. Drops of solder are put on the body to the adpator thru the holes to "keep it from twisting off". This gets around the problem of getting the insullation too hot.
 
How timely, Bob; thanks. I just had to pull my Raymarine VHF and send it in for repair and while jury-rigging a replacement discovered that the PL-259 connector loses contact in certain positions. So I should probably replace it and your link provides a clear method for doing so. Soldering has never been my strong suit.......
Al
 
Thanks for posting that great article Bob. I too have been doing it wrong for 30 (er, plus) years. Much easier, cleaner and probably more reliable result!
 
I am not sure that differently is wrong, but this is a very simple technique which works very well for the smaller coax we have with the vHF radios in our boats. There can be occasions that the heating the entire body may work better, with larger diameter coax.

Its always fun to try a new technique, which appears to be easier and have less potential problems.
 
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