MY JOURNEY WITH THE MFJ-1917 FIBREGLASS ANTENNA POLE: A HAM RADIO OPERATOR’S TALE

Marius Lubbe ZS1ML

Hello, fellow ham radio enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to share with you my experience with a piece of equipment that has become a staple in my ham radio operations – the MFJ-1917 Fibreglass Antenna Pole. This isn’t just a review; it’s a story of discovery, versatility, and reliability.

GETTING TO KNOW THE MFJ-1917

When I first got my hands on the MFJ-1917, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. Manufactured by the reputable MFJ Enterprises, this portable fibreglass antenna pole is designed to be both lightweight and sturdy. It extends to an impressive height of approximately 13.1 metres (43 feet), offering an outstanding reach for various antenna types.

The pole is composed of ten sections, each around 1.47 metres (4.8 feet) long. These sections can be easily extended and locked into place with a simple twist. When it’s time to pack up, the pole collapses to a relatively compact 1.47 metres (4.8 feet), making it incredibly easy to transport and store. The fibreglass construction ensures durability and resistance to weather conditions, while the unmistakable, sleek green colour, gives it a professional aesthetic.

THE STANDOUT FEATURE

One of the standout features of the MFJ-1917 is the robustness of the top section. At a thickness of .160 inches (approximately 4.06 mm), it is significantly thicker than those of competitor models. This added thickness allows it to support a reasonable weight antenna, providing a level of strength and stability that sets it apart in the market.

But what really blew me away was the solid construction and heavyweight fibreglass used in this “mean green machine”. It’s clear that the MFJ-1917 is built to withstand all sorts of operating conditions, making it a reliable choice for any ham radio operator.

VERSATILITY IN ACTION

The MFJ-1917 isn’t just a sturdy pole; it’s a versatile tool that has served me well in a variety of scenarios. Here are some of the ways I’ve put it to use:

1. Field Operations:

The portability of the MFJ-1917 makes it a go-to choice for field days, camping trips, or any situation requiring a temporary antenna setup. Its quick assembly and disassembly ensure efficient setup and teardown, saving me precious time and effort.

2. Emergency Communications:

In situations where standard communication infrastructure is compromised, the MFJ-1917 has proven invaluable. I’ve been able to deploy it swiftly to establish a reliable communication link. Its impressive height allows for extensive signal coverage, making it an essential tool in disaster response scenarios.

3. Home Station Setup:

Despite its portability, the MFJ-1917 has also served as a permanent fixture in my home station setup. Its ability to support various wire antennas offers flexibility in antenna choice and configuration, allowing me to experiment and find the setup that works best for me.

4. Antenna Experimentation:

For those interested in antenna design and experimentation, the MFJ-1917 provides a convenient and adjustable platform. I’ve been able to test and adjust different antenna designs easily, enhancing my understanding and performance of various antenna types.

SETUP AND GUYING RECOMMENDATIONS

To prevent the pole from accidentally collapsing, I’ve found it helpful to place a sturdy zip tie above each section where it exits the section below. This simple yet effective measure can provide additional stability and peace of mind, especially when the pole is fully extended.

Given the height of the MFJ-1917, it’s crucial to secure it with guying ropes, especially in windy conditions. I recommend using non-conductive ropes like nylon or polyester. Attach the guying ropes at about one-third of the pole’s height, and if you’re dealing with very strong winds, add a second set of ropes at two-thirds of the pole’s height. Three ropes arranged in a triangular pattern at each guying point will give you the most stability.

CONCLUSION

The MFJ-1917 Fibreglass Antenna Pole is more than just a tool; it’s a game-changer in the world of ham radio. Its robust top section, solid construction, and heavyweight fibreglass set it apart from the competition. With the right setup and guying ropes, the MFJ-1917 ensures stability and performance, making it a worthy addition to any ham radio operator’s toolkit. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

73, Marius Lubbe ZS1ML

zs1ml@outlook.com

www.learnminds.co.za

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