[Biggles]

The active antenna (checked out now as the Howes AA-4) is actually formed on a PCB so the antenna elements are print. The PCB forms a blade which fits quite snugly inside the intended plastic pipe, so spacers shouldn't be necessary. The bottom section which is going to be clamped to a bracket is a piece of ali tube which again fits snugly inside the plastic pipe. Two end caps (a waste product from the day job) effectively seal the unit from the weather. All built from scrap materials. I think the kit cost me about a quid at a rally a few years back. I think I will just use the plastic pipe I have and risk it. The general opinion seems to be that it won't be a problem. The neighbours won't notice another antenna among the dozen or so I already have on the shack. They are quite used to see me clambering about on the roof. I always wave and say hello.