Cushcraft X9 assembly instruction

ASSEMBLY &

INSTALLATION

20-15-10 Meter Nine Element Beam

COMMUNICATIONS ANTENNAS

951471 (9/98)

Thank you for your purchase of the Cushcraft X9 Tribander. This antenna is designed and manufactured to give the best performance and
trouble free service. The antenna will perform as specified if the instructions are followed during assembly and installation. Cushcraft operates
a full service Technical Support staff to answer questions regarding assembly, tuning, parts and just about everything else. Please contact us
by phone [phone] (8 AM - 5PM Eastern Time), FAX [phone], or email [e-mail] for prompt service.

WARNING

THIS ANTENNA IS AN ELECTRICAL CONDUCTOR. CONTACT WITH POWER LINES CAN RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY. DO
NOT INSTALL THIS ANTENNA WHERE THERE IS ANY POSSIBILITY OF CONTACT WITH OR HIGH VOLTAGE ARC-OVER FROM POWER
CABLES OR SERVICE DROPS TO BUILDINGS. THE ANTENNA, SUPPORTING MAST AND/OR TOWER MUST NOT BE CLOSE TO ANY
POWER LINES DURING INSTALLATION, REMOVAL OR IN THE EVENT PART OF THE SYSTEM SHOULD ACCIDENTALLY FALL. FOLLOW
THE GUIDELINES FOR ANTENNA INSTALLATION RECOMMENDED BY THE U.S. CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION AND
LISTED IN THE ENCLOSED PAMPHLETS.

Antenna System Planning

Before assembly, take time to review your installation plans for the antenna. Location of the antenna is very important. Surrounding objects such
as trees, power lines, buildings, and other antennas will interact with an HF Yagi. To minimize the effects of surrounding objects, mount the
antenna as high and in the clear as possible. Metallic guy wire within 30 feet of this antenna should be broken with strain insulators to improve
performance.

40 Meter Add-On Kit

The X940 40 meter add-on kit is available for the X9. The kit consists of a loaded dipole element that is mounted on the boom section BA
between Elements #2 and #3. The 40 meter element requires a separate coax feed. Contact Cushcraft or your dealer for more information.

YOU MUST INSURE THAT NEITHER PEOPLE OR PETS CAN COME IN CONTACT WITH YOUR ANTENNA WHILE IT IS IN OPERATION.
DEADLY VOLTAGES AND CURRENTS MAY EXIST. ALSO, SINCE THE EFFECTS OF EXPOSURE TO RF ARE NOT FULLY UNDERSTOOD,
LONG TERM EXPOSURE TO INTENSE RF FIELDS IS NOT RECOMMENDED. THERE IS A WARNING STICKER WHICH MUST BE ATTACHED
TO THE BOOM AS SHOWN IN FIGURE 8A.

Plan your installation carefully. If you use volunteer helpers be sure that they are qualified to assist you. Make certain that everyone involved
understands that you are in charge and that they must follow your instructions. If you have any doubts at all, employ a professional antenna
installation company to install your antenna.

System Grounding

Direct grounding of the antenna, mast and tower is very important. This serves as protection from lightning strikes and static buildup. A good
electrical connection should be made to one or more ground rods directly at the base of the tower or mast using at least #10 AWG ground wire
and non-corrosive hardware. For details and safety standards, consult the National Electrical Code. A coaxial lightning arrester should be used.
Cushcraft offers several different models such as the LAC series.

Assembly

The assembly procedure for the X9 consists of assembling the following subassemblies.

1) Verification of Parts. 2) Boom Assembly. 3) Element Assembly. 4) Element to Boom Assembly.

5) Feed System Assembly. 6) Boom to Mast Clamp Assembly. 7) Boom Truss Assembly.

Assembly of the X9 will be easiest if the preceding steps are performed in the given order. For easier tower mounting, some or all of the elements
may be mounted to the boom when the antenna is on the tower. If this option is chosen, the feed system can be attached after the elements
are mounted.

Please read through the entire assembly procedure before beginning.
NOTE: If you plan to install the 40 meter add-on kit, please read the X940 manual before you assemble the X9.

1-Verification of Parts

Verify all parts are present by using the X9 Master Parts List. Check off each part when it is counted. There are extra parts intentionally shipped
with this antenna. Place common hardware in temporary containers for ease of assembly.

Part No. Description Metric Equivalent Quantity Qty Check

014597 #8-32 x 3" Stainless Steel Machine Screw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #8 x 7.6 cm 2 ____

X9EW 7/8” x 12” Aluminum tube slotted 2 ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2 x 30.5 cm 1 ____

X9EX 1/2” x 32” Aluminum tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 x 81.2 cm 2 ____

X99FS 1/2" Tinned Copper Braid 6" Long with Lugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.2 cm x 15 cm 2 ____

010011 #8-32 Stainless Steel Nut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 ____

010082 1/4-20 x 1" Hex Bolt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.6 cm - 20 x 2.5 cm 56 ____

010084 1/4" Stainless Steel Lock Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.6 cm 107 ____

010085 1/4-20 Stainless Steel Nut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.6 cm 19 ____

010120 #8-32 x 2" Stainless Steel Machine Screw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #8 x 5.1 cm 4 ____

010123 #8-32 x 1 1/2" Stainless Steel Machine Screw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #8 x 3.8 cm 4 ____

010207 3/8" Stainless Steel Flat Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9 cm 10 ____

010208 3/8" Stainless Steel Lock Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9 cm 10 ____

010209 3/8" Stainless Steel Nut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9 cm 10 ____

011941 #8 Stainless Steel Lock Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10____

013209 2-7/8" Center-to-center U-Bolt 4" Long . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.3 cm -10.2 cm Long 5 ____

1

Verification of Parts continued

Part No. Description Metric Equivalent Quantity

014387 #8-32 Stainless Steel Lock Nut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 ____

014399 1/4” Stainless Steel Lock Nut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.6 cm 105 ____

014495 7/8" Cush-a-Clamp® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2 cm 6 ____

014496 1" Cush-a-Clamp® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 cm 4 ____

014497 1-1/4" Cush-a-Clamp® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.2 cm 8 ____

014588 1/4" x 3-1/2" Stainless Steel Hex Bolt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.6 x 8.9 cm 15 ____

014592 1/4" Stainless Steel Flat Washer 1/8" Thick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.6 x 0.3 cm 16 ____

024259 1/8” Thimble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.3 cm 4 ____

024624 1/8” Cable clamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.3 cm 12 ____

024623 5/16” x 4” Turnbuckle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.8 x 10 cm2____

030407 5/8" Worm Clamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6 cm 14 ____

030409 11/16" Worm Clamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.7 cm 18 ____

030410 1" Worm Clamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 cm 26 ____

030411 1-1/8" Worm Clamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.9 cm 8 ____

030412 1-1/2" Worm Clamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.8 cm 8 ____

050053 1/2" Black Plastic Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 cm 4 ____

050077 3/8" Black Plastic Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9 cm 14 ____

054526 2-1/2" Black Plastic Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.4 cm 2 ____

094622 35’ Phillystran cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.9m 1 ____

124565 5/8" x 8" Drilled Fiberglass Insulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6 x 20.3 cm 2 ____

124566 7/8" x 8" Drilled Fiberglass Insulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2 x 20.3 cm 1 ____

124567 1" x 8" Drilled Fiberglass Insulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 x 20.3 cm 1 ____

154554 3” x 2-1/2” x 1” Tuning Tube Insulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.6 x 6.3 x 2.5 cm 1 ____

170035 2-1/2" Formed Aluminum Vee Blocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.4 cm 5 ____

194542 8" x 8" x 1/4" Aluminum Mounting Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20.3 x 20.3 x 0.6 cm 1 ____

194555 2-7/8” x 1” x 1/4” Tuning Tube Shorting Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.3 x 2.5 x .6 cm 1 ____

194618 6” x 12” x 1/4” Aluminum mounting plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15.2 x 30 x 0.6 cm 1 ____

194791 2” x 4” x 1/8” Drilled aluminum truss bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1 x 10.2 x 0.3 cm 1 ____

244604 NOALOX® conductive lubricant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 ____

290326 Danger Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 ____

323832 2” x 1-1/2” x 1/8” Feed Strap Plastic Insulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1 x 3.8 x .3 cm 3 ____

324504 3" x 5-1/4" x 1/8" Drilled Extruded Aluminum Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.6 x 13.3 x 0.3 cm 6 ____

324506 8" x 5-1/4" x 3/16" Drilled Extruded Aluminum Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20.3 x 13.3 x 0.5 cm 2 ____

324509 4" x 5-1/4" x 3/16" Drilled Extruded Aluminum Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.2 x 13.3 x 0.5 cm 12 ____

324564 1" x 5-1/4" x 1/8" Drilled Extruded Aluminum Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 x 13.3 x 0.3 cm 2 ____

330885 Brush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 ____

T2 17” 10 meter Director Trap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 cm 2 ____

T4 19” 15 meter Director Trap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 cm 2 ____

T6 20-3/4” 15 Meter Director Trap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52.7 cm 2 ____

TD 16-1/2” 10 Meter Director Trap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 cm 2 ____

MNX79 Matching Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 cm 1 ____

BA 2-1/2" x 84" Drilled Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.4 x 213 cm 1 ____

BB 2-1/2" x 72" Drilled Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.4 x 182 cm 1 ____

BC 2-1/2" x 54" Drilled Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.4 x 137 cm 1 ____

BD 2-1/2" x 66" Drilled Aluminium Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.4 x 167 cm 1 ____

BE 2-1/2" x 84" Drilled Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.4 x 213 cm 1 ____

EA 1-1/4" x 72" Aluminum Tube slotted 2 ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.2 x 183 cm 1 ____

EB 1-1/8" x 52 " Aluminum Tube slotted 1 end, 1" tube insert 1 end . . . . . . . . . 2.8 x 132 cm 4 ____

EC 1" x 36" Aluminum Tube slotted 7/8" swege 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 x 91 cm 4 ____

ED 3/4" x 36" Aluminum Tube slotted 5/8" swege 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.9 x 91 cm 10 ____

EE 1/2" x 36" Aluminum Tube slotted 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 x 91 cm 8 ____

EF 3/8" x 48" Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0 x 122 cm 4 ____

EG 1" x 48" Aluminum Tube slotted 2 ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 x 122 cm 1 ____

EH 7/8" x 48" Aluminum Tube slotted 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2 x 122 cm 2 ____

EJ 3/8" x 32" Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0 x 81 cm 4 ____

EK 1" x 24" Aluminum Tube slotted 1 end, drilled 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 x 61 cm 2 ____

EL 1-1/4" x 36" Aluminum Tube, slotted 1 end, drilled 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.2 x 91 cm 2 ____

EM 1/2" x 24" Aluminum Tube slotted 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 x 61 cm 6 ____

EN 3/8" x 36" Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0 x 91 cm 6 ____

EP 1-1/4" x 48" Aluminum Tube slotted 2 ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.2 x 122 cm 2 ____

ER 1-1/8" x 48" Aluminum Tube slotted 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.9 x 122 cm 4 ____

ES 1/2" x 36" Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 x 91 cm 2 ____

ET 7/8" x 36" Aluminum Tube slotted 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2 x 91 cm 2 ____

EU 3/4" x 36" Aluminum Tube slotted 5/8" OD swege 1 end, drilled 1 end . . . . . . . 1.9 x 91 cm 4 ____

EV 1"x 36" Aluminum Tube slotted 1 end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 x 91 cm 4 ____

EX 1/2” X 32” Aluminum Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 x 81 cm 2 ____

EY 1" x 5-1/4" Aluminum Tube slotted 2 ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.5 x 13.3 cm 4 ____

EZ 3/8" x 30" Intentionally Bent Aluminum Tube crimped and drilled 1 end . . . . . . 1.0 x 76 cm 2 ____

FL1 5/8" x 16" Aluminum Flat Feedline Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9 x 41 cm 2 ____

FL2 5/8" x 20-3/4" Aluminum Flat Feedline Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9 x 53 cm 2 ____

FL3 5/8" x 28-3/4" Aluminum Flat Feedline Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9 x 73 cm 2 ____

2

Figure 1

26

3-3/4”

(9.5 cm)

84”

(213.4 cm)

BA

53”

(135 cm)

1-1/4”

(3.2 cm)

BA

BA

33”

(84 cm)

(182 cm)

BB

72”

20”

(51 cm)

(137 cm)

1-1/4”

(3.2 cm)

BC

54”

4-3/4”

(12 cm)

(167 cm)

1-1/4”

(3.2 cm)

66”

BD

4-3/4”

(12 cm)

Figure 2

BB

BC

BD

Figure 3

Element

#3

See

Fig. 4A

Mounting hole

for optional 40M

add-on kit.

BB

Element

#6

See

Fig. 4A

BC

Element

#7

See

Fig. 4A

BD

Element

#8

See

Fig. 4A

Figure 4

#3 #4#2#1 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9

1-1/4”

(3.2 cm)

BE

BE

84”

(213 cm)

BE

3-3/4”

(9.5 cm)

26

See
Fig.

4B

See
Fig.

4C

Tuning

tube

support

insulator

See
Fig.

4C

See
Fig.

4C

NOTE: The X9 is shipped with NOALOX® conductive lubricant and an applicator brush. Apply small amounts of
the lubricant to telescoping tubing sections during element and boom assembly. Apply small amounts of lubricant
to bolt/U-bolt threads to prevent galling (seizing) of the nuts during assembly. Also, apply small amounts to the
feedstrap assembly and matching network connections.

2-Boom Assembly

Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4 show the steps for boom assembly. Identify the tubing
sections, element brackets and hardware required for this step by using the
Boom Subassembly Parts List. Note the element brackets for Elements #3, #6,
#7 and #8 join the boom sections (Figure 3).

Refer to Figures 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D to assemble element brackets. The
1/4” hex nuts (85) are used as spacers on all brackets. Tighten these nuts in
place before assembling element bracket halves. The 1/4” flat washers (1/8”
thick) (529) are used on brackets as spacers (Figures 4A, 4B, 4C). The Boom
may be placed on a flat surface with all brackets laying flat on the surface. This
will allow all brackets to be fastened in line with each other. When tightening
the hardware, refer to Figure 4A and tighten all bracket hardware in this order.
Do not tighten the bolts on the Tuning Tube Support Insulator Bracket (Figure
4D). Allow the bracket to remain loose on the boom for Step 5 (Feed System
Assembly).

Nylon insert lock nuts are designed for one-time use. Do not tighten these
nuts if you expect to disassemble antenna sections during antenna mounting.

After mounting boom end caps (26), drill a small hole (1/4”) in the bottom
edge of the cap for water drainage. Determine which edge of the end cap will
be on the ground facing side of the boom when antenna is mounted in its final
position.

See
Fig.

4B

ID Part # Description Dimensions Qty

82 010082 Hex 1/4-20 x 1” 30

84 010084 SS Lock 1/4” 50

85 010085 SS Nut 1/4-20 19

99 014399 SS Lock 1/4” 50

504 324504 Aluminum 3” x 5-1/4” x 1/8” 6

509 324509 Aluminum 4” x 5-1/4 x 3/16” 12

564 324564 Aluminum 1” x 5-1/4” x 1/8” 2

588 014588 SS Hex 1/4” x 3-1/2” 13

592 014592 SS Flat 1/4” (1/8” thick) 16

Bolt (.6 x 2.5 cm)

Washer (.6 cm)

(.6 cm)

Nut (.6 cm)

Bracket (7.6 x 13.3 x .3 cm)

Bracket (10.2 x 13.3 x .5 cm)

Bracket (2.5 x 13.3 x .3 cm)

Bolt (.6 x 10.2 cm)

Washer (.6 x .3 cm)

3

Tighten

99

LAST

82

82

82

84

84

84

82

84

509

85

Figure 4A

592

85

588

99

84

588

84

509

Tighten
SECOND

99

99

99

Tighten
FIRST

99

509

Figure 4B

82

82

82

84

82

82

84

82

84

504

84

84

82

84

84

509

85

85

592

85

Figure 4C

592

85

Leave out
until Step #9

588

84

509

84

588

504

99

99

99

99

99

509

99

99

99

99

99

504

82

84

564

82

84

85

Figure 4D

564

99

99

Leave loose

for Step 5

4

4”

(10.16 cm)

1/4”

(.63 cm)

ER

EP

ER

Butt ends of ER’s together

at the center of EP

24”(61cm)

3-Element Assembly

Figures 5, 5A, 5B, and 5C show the steps for element assembly.
Identify the tubing sections required for each element using the Element
Subassembly Parts List. Each telescoping tubing section is inserted 4
inches into the larger section except where noted in Figure 5. Adjust the
length of the end tubing section to give each element the proper total half
length. All dimensions should be within 1/4 inch of the values given. Mark
the center of tubing sections EA, EG, and EP with a marker as shown in
Figure 6A. These marks will be used in Step 4 when elements are
mounted on the boom. The dimension between traps TB and T2 is measured
between the ends of each trap. The 75 inch dimension from element #7
center is measured to the end of trap T2. The dimension between traps
T4 and TD is measured between the ends of each trap. The 72-1/2”
dimension from element #9 center is measured to the end of trap TD.
Insure all traps are installed with arrows pointing toward the boom. Also
position trap drain holes so they will be facing the ground when the antenna
is in its final position.

Install all worm clamps as shown. Take care not to overtighten and
strip the worm clamp. Apply electrical tape over the worm clamp and
tubing. This will keep the worm clamps from snagging wires or ropes in
the future. Extra worm clamps are provided. Note that all element sections
can be fastened using a self-taping screw at each tubing transition. Use
stainless screws for best performance. Properly installed worm clamps
will provide years of trouble free service.

The X9 is constructed entirely with .058-inch wall tubing. This creates
a tight transition between tubing sections with the closest possible fit and
better ice-loading characteristics than antennas constructed with thinner
wall tubing. Elements 3, 4, 5 and 6 have fiberglass center sections.
Reference figures 5A, 5B and5C for proper assembly.

After mounting element end caps (53, 77) punch a small hole (1/4”)
in the bottom edge (ground facing side) of each cap for water drainage.

11

Figure 5A

11
941

120

Figure 5B

Figure 5C

941

567

120

566

120

11

941

565

123

11
941

120

11
941

11
941

123

Element #1

EF

77

Element #3

77

Element #7

Element #9

407

Final Length

Adjustment

Element #2

407 409

EE

EN

Final Length

Adjustment

Element #4

FIGURE 5

53

28-1/2”

(72.4 CM)

53

(66.0 CM)

EE

ES

EX

26”

77

409

77

409

409

ED

EJ

ED

EN

410 410

T6

Element #8

410 410

T4

407

Final Length

Adjustment

410

407

Final Length

Adjustment

Element #5

EY

7”

(17.8 CM)

EY

5-3/4”

(14.6 CM)

410

EM

EC

EM

T2

77

TD

EC

409

409

77

Element #6

410

EN

Final Length

Adjustment

410

411

EB

410

ED

411

EB

410

ED

EF EE

Final Length

Adjustment

77

EV

9” (22.9 CM)

407

EV

11-1/2 Insert”

(29.2 CM)

407

EJ

Final Length

Adjustment

411 412

Insert

409 409

EE

411 412

220”

(558.8 CM)

EH

148”

(375.9 CM)

205.5”

(522 CM)

ET

141”

(358.1 CM)

409

110”

(279.4 CM)

407 409

EM

83”

(210.8 CM)

ER

75”

(190.5 CM)

ED

94”

(238.8 cm)

ER

72-1/2”

(184.2 CM)

412

412

410

EU

EL

EU

EK

410

410

EA

EP

EP

EG

EW

C

C

L

L

567

566

565

565

(60 CM)

(60 CM)

See Fig. 5A

See Fig. 5B

EK

See Fig. 5C

EU

See Fig. 5C

24”

410

24”

IMPORTANT

Unless indicated otherwise, telescope
elements 4” (10.16 cm) and tighten
the worm clamp.

412

EB

220”

(558.8 CM)

410

EL

EU

412

412

EH

148”

(375.9 CM)

412

205.5”

(522 CM)

(358.1 CM)

409

(279.4 CM)

409

EM

83”

(210.8 CM)

ER

(190.5 CM)

ED

(238.8 cm)

ER

ET

141”

110”

407

Final Length

75”

94”

72-1/2”

(184.2 CM)

410

EB

410

407

Final Length

Adjustment

EJ

Adjustment

411

9” (22.9 CM)

EE

411

ED

ED

EFEE

77

EV

Insert

407

EV

11-1/2 Insert”

(29.2 CM)

411

EC

409

409410

Final Length

Adjustment

77

410

EN

410

EM

Final Length

Adjustment

EC

EM

410

(17.8 CM)

77

410

(14.6 CM)

410411

407

407

EY

7”

EY

5-3/4”

410

ED

EN

410

410

EJ

ED

EE

Final Length

Adjustment

77

409

EE

Final Length

Adjustment

407409

407

EN

EF

77

77

77

409

ES

T6T2

53

28-1/2”

(72.4 CM)

409

EX

T4TD

53

26”

(66.0 CM)

5

6

3-Element Assembly
Parts List

ID Part # Description Dimensions Qty

11 010011 SS Nut #8-32 8

53 050053 Black 1/2” 4

77 050077 Black 3/8’ 14

120 010120 SS Machine #8-32 x 2” 4

123 010123 SS Machine #8-32 x 1-1/2” 4

407 030407 Worm 5/8” 12

409 030409 Worm 11/16” 14

410 030410 Worm 1” 18

411 030411 Worm 1-1/8” 6

412 030412 Worm 1-1/2” 6

565 124565 Fiberglass 5/8” x8” 2

566 124566 Fiberglass 7/8” x 8” 1

567 124567 Fiberglass 1” x 8” 1

941 011941 SS Lock #8 8

EA X79EA Aluminum 1-1/4” x 72” 1

EB X79EB Aluminum 1-5/8” x 52” 4

EC E79EC Aluminum 1” x 36” 4

ED X79ED Aluminum 3/4” x 36” 10

EE X79EE Aluminum 1/2” x 36” 8

EF E79EF Aluminum 3/8” x 48” 4

EG E79EG Aluminum 1” x 48” 1

EH E79EH Aluminum 7/8” x 48” 2

EJ E79EJ Aluminum 3/8” x 32” 4

EK X79EK Aluminum 1” x 24” 2

EL X79EL Aluminum 1-1/4” x 36” 2

EM X79EM Aluminum 1/2” x 24” 6

EN X79EN Aluminum 3/8” x 36” 6

EP X79EP Aluminum 1-1/4” x 48” 2

Plastic Cap (1.3 cm)

Plastic Cap (0.9 cm)

Screw #8 x 5.1 cm)

Screw (#8 x 3.8 cm)

Clamp (1.6 cm)

Clamp (1.7 cm)

Clamp (2.5 cm)

Clamp (2.9 cm)

Clamp (3.8 cm)

Insulator (1.6 x 20.3 cm)

Insulator (2.2. x 20.3 cm)

Insulator (2.5 x 20.3)

Washer

Tube (3.2 x 183 cm)

Tube (2.8 x 132 cm)

Tube 2.5 x 91 cm)

Tube (1.9 x 91 cm)

Tube (1.3 x 91 cm)

Tube (1.0 x 122 cm)

Tube (2.5 x 122 cm)

Tube (2.2 x 122 cm)

Tube (1.0 x 81 cm)

Tube (2.5 x 61 cm)

Tube (3.2 x 91 cm)

Tube (1.3 x 61 cm)

Tube (1.0 x 99 cm)

Tube (3.2 x 122 cm)

ER X79ER Aluminum 1-1/8” x 48” 4

ES X79ES Aluminum 1/2” x 36” 2

ET X79ET Aluminum 7/8” x 36” 2

EU X79EU Aluminum 3/4” x 36” 4

EV X79EV Aluminum 1” x 36” 4

EW X9EW Aluminum 7/8” x 12” 1

EX X9EX Aluminum 1/2” x 32” 2

EY A34SEF Aluminim 1” x 5-1/4” 2

T6 T6 15 M 20-3/4” 2

TD TD 10 M 16-1/2” 2

T2 T2 10 M 17” 2

T4 T4 15 M 19” 2

Cushcraft Corporation, 48 Perimeter Road, Manchester, New Hampshire 03103,
warrants to the original consumer purchaser for one year from date of purchase
that each Cushcraft antenna is free of defects in material or workmanship. If, in
the judgement of Cushcraft, any such antenna is defective, then Cushcraft will, at
its option, repair or replace the antenna at its expense within thirty days of the date
the antenna is returned (at purchaser's expense) to Cushcraft or one of its authorized
representatives. This warranty is in lieu of all other expressed warranties. Any
implied warranty is limited in duration to one year.
Cushcraft Corporation shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential
damages which may result from a defect. Some states do not allow a limitation
on how long an implied warranty lasts or exclusions or limitations of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above limitation and exclusion may not apply to
you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other
rights which vary from state to state. This warranty does not extend to any products
which have been subject to misuse, neglect, accident or improper installation. Any
repairs or alterations outside of the Cushcraft factory will nullify this warranty.

T6

TD

T2

T4

Limited Warranty

Tube (2.9 x 122 cm)

Tube (1.3 x 91 cm)

Tube (2.2 x 91 cm)

Tube (1.9 x 91 cm)

Tube (2.5 x 91 cm)

Tube (2.2 x 30.5 cm)

Tube (1.3 x 81 cm)

Tube (2.5 x 13.3 cm)

Trap (52.7 cm)

Trap (42 cm)

Trap (43 cm)

Trap (48 cm)

Figure 6

See
Fig.

6D

See
Fig.

6E

99

84

Mark Center Line

of element using

element half lengths.

99

84

#3

See
Fig.

6B

#4#2#1 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9

See
Fig.

6E

99

84

See

See

Fig.

Fig.

6E

6C

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

See
Fig.

6B

Figure 6D

497

Figure 6E

See
Fig.

6C

99

99

84

99
84

84

99

84

99

84

497

1-1/4” Cush-A-Clamp

99

84

See
Fig.

6D

497

497

495

99

84

99

84

1-1/4” Cush-A-Clamp

Figure 6C

99

84

495

7/8” Cush-A-Clamp

Figure 6F

4-Element to Boom Assembly

Elements can be attached to the boom when the antenna is on the ground or when

496

495

ID Part # Description Dimensions Qty

84 010084 SS Lock 1/4” 36

the antenna is being installed on a tower. Identify the hardware required to secure
the elements by using the Element-to-Boom Parts List. Figure 6 sho ws the position
of each element on the boom. Mark the center of element as shown in Figure 6A.
Figures 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F show the hardware required to attach each element to
the element bracket. Position each element center mark equidistant between each
Cush-A-Clamp. Leave the Cush-A-Clamps loose on the Log Cell Elements (#3, #4,
#5, #6) until the feed straps are attached in Step 5. There are three sizes of Cush-

99 014399 SS Lock 1/4” 36

495 014495 Cush-a-Clamp® 7/8” 6

496 014496 Cush-a-Clamp® 1” 4

A-Clamps. Tighten each clamp until the element tubing can no longer rotate inside
the Cush-A-Clamp. The lock washers under the nuts securing the Cush-A-Clamps

497 014497 Cush-a-Clamp® 1-1/4” 8

should be tightened until they are flat against the mounting bracket.

496

1” Cush-A-Clamp

99

99

84

84

99

84

495

7/8” Cush-A-Clamp

Washer (.6 cm)

Nut (.6 cm)

(2.2 cm)

(2.5 cm)

(3.2 cm)

7

Element

87

87

832

9EZ

#3

Element

#4

Element

#5

Element

#6

554

EZ

1/2”

(1.3 cm)

555

832

FL3

FL2

832

FL1

832

Figure 7

Mast mounting

location for reference

5-Feed System Assembly

The feed system consists of 3 sub-assemblies. They are the feed-straps,
the tuning tube insulator and the matching network. Figure 7 illustrates the
3 pairs of feed-straps (FL1, FL2, FL3). Refer to the Feed System Subassembly
Parts List for the hardware required to install the straps. Slide a feed-strap
insulator (832) on to each pair of feed-straps to space and insulate the straps.
Elements may be rotated slightly during feed strap attachment. Tighten Cush­A-Clamps on Elements #3, #4, #5 and #6.

Locate the 2 tuning-tubes (EZ). Attach the punched ends of each tube to
the screws at the center of Element #3.

Locate the Tuning Tube Shorting Strap (555). Loosen the 2 screws and
slide the strap onto the tuning tubes (EZ). Leave strap loose.

ID Part # Description Dimensions Qty

87 014387 SS Lock #8-32 8

554 154554 Tuning Tube 3” x 2-1/2” x 1” 1

555 194555 Tuning Tube 2-7/8” x 1” x 1/4” 1

832 323832 Strap 2” x 1-1/2” x1/8” 3

FL1 X79FL1 Feedline 5/8” x 16” 2

FL2 X79FL2 Feedline 5/8” x 20-3/4” 2

FL3 X79FL3 Feedline 5/8” x 28-3/4” 2

EZ X79EZ Bent Alum 3/8” x 28” 2

Nut

Insulator (7.6 x 6.3 x 2.5 cm)

Shorting Strap (7.3 x 2.5 x .6 cm)

Insulator (5.1 x 3.8 x .3 cm)

Strap (.9 x 41 c m)

Strap (.9 x 53)

Strap (.9 x 73 cm)

Tube (.95 x 71.1 cm)

8

Figure 7B

Figure 7A

82

84

554

82

84

ID Part # Description Dimensions Qty

82 010082 Hex 1/4-20 x 1” 2

84 010084 SS Lock 1/4” 2

87 014387 SS Lock #8-32 2

554 154554 Tuning Tube 3” x 2-1/2” x 1” 1

555 194555 Tuning Tube 2” x 1-1/2” x 1/8” 1

597 014597 SS Machine #8-32 x 3” 2

941 011941 SS Lock #8 4

EZ Tuning Tube 3/8” x 30” 2

FS X79FS Feed 6” 2

MN MNX79 Matching 1

Bolt (.6-20 x 2.5 cm)

Washer (.6 cm)

Nut

Insulator (7.6 x 6.3 x 2.5 cm)

Shorting Strap (5.1 x 3.8 x .3 cm)

Screw (7.6 cm)

Washer

(,95 x 76.2 cm)

(15.2 cm)

Network

EZ

555

Refer to Figure 7A and attach the tuning tube insulator to the
boom bracket. Use the hardware listed in the Tuning Tube Insulator
Subassembly Parts List. Slide the insulator toward tuning tubes (EZ)
until tube ends slide into the insulator holes, (Figure 7B). Tighten
bolts on boom bracket securing tuning tube insulator in place.

Reference Figure 7 and position the Tuning Tube Shorting Strap
(555) 1/2 inch from the tuning tube insulator. Adjusting this strap will
not have a significant effect on the VSWR of the X9. Tighten strap
screws.

Reference Figure 7C for matching network mounting. Required
hardware is listed in the Matching Network Subassembly Parts List.
Attach matching network (MN) to boom with two 8-32 bolts (597).
Connect feed straps (FS) from matching network terminals to each
FL3 end at the center of Element #6. Form drip loops in the feed
straps and position them as shown in Figure 7C. Form the feed­straps away from the Cush-A-Clamp U-bolts and Element #6 element
bracket.

Figure 7C

Coax Drip Loop

597

87

941

FL1

MN

941

FS

Form Drip Loops

with feed straps.

9

87

941

597

87

87

Element #6

FS

87

3209

Figure 8

618

35

35

82

35

209

208

207

208

209

208

207

209

209

208

207

209

207

208

208

209

209

Boom Shelf

506

326

Figure 8A

588

588

82

84

84

84

506

99

542

207

99

84

207

208

207

3209

35

ID Part # Description Dimensions Qty

35 170035 Aluminum 2-1/2” 4

82 010082 Hex 1/4-20 x 1” 16

84 010084 SS Lock 1/4” 18

99 014399 SS Lock 1/4” 18

207 010207 SS Flat 3/8” 8

208 010208 SS Lock 3/8” 8

209 010209 SS 3/8” 8

326 290326 Danger 1

506 324506 Aluminum 8” x 5-1/4” x 3/16” 2

542 194542 Alu Mounting 8” x 8” x 1/4” 1

588 014588 SS Hex 1/4” x 3-1/2” 2

618 194618 Alu Mounting 6” x 12” x 1/4” 1

V-Block (6.3 cm)

Bolt (2.5 cm)

Washer (0.6 cm)

Nut (.6 cm)

Washer (.95 cm)

Washer (.95 cm)

Nut (.95 cm)

Label

Bracket (20.3 x 13.3 x .5 cm)

Plate 20.3 x 20.3 x .6 cm)

Bolt (.6 x 8.9 cm)

Plate (15.2 x 30.5 x .6 cm)

3209 013209 U-Bolt 2-7/8” 4

(7.3 cm)

99

99

506

6-Boom to Mast Clamp Assembly

tower/mast so the built in boom shelf feature can be utilized. Following this
suggestion, if possible, will simplify antenna installation.

hardware is listed in the Boom to Mast Clamp Assembly Parts List. Form
the boom shelf by attaching the lower boom bracket (506) to the mast plate
(542). Attach mast plates (542 & 618) to mast using U-bolts (3209) and V­blocks (35).

attach the top boom bracket (506) to the mast-plate (542) and to the lower
boom bracket (506) as shown in Figure 8A. This allows the boom to be
moved back and forth for tower top element mounting.

feed system is in place, line up the 2 holes in the top of the upper boom
bracket (506) holes with the corresponding 2 holes in boom section BC.
Insert bolts (588) and tighten in place. Next, tighten the 8 bolts, securing
the upper and lower boom brackets. Tighten the 4 bolts connecting the
upper boom bracket to the mast plate.

matching network. Route the coax as shown in Figure 7C. Form a drip-loop
with the coax and secure the coax to the boom. Insure PL-259 connector
is waterproofed with a good quality sealant after it is attached to the matching
network.

The X9 boom to mast clamp is designed to be mounted on the

Reference Figure 8 for assembly of boom to mast clamp. Required

Place the boom on the boom shelf during installation. Loosely

When all elements are securely mounted to the boom and the

Attach good quality coax with a PL-259 connector to the X9

10

209

209

7 - Boom Truss

208

207

Assembly

Figure 9 illustrates the boom truss assembly. Refer to
the boom truss assembly parts list for the hardware
required. The X9 uses Phillystran® cable to guy the
boom. The cable is one continuous piece from one boom
end to the other. Note the Phillystran cable safety loop
that goes around the mast truss bracket.

24

2”

(5.1 CM)

24

24

22

Attach the truss plate (26) to the mast 3 feet
(1m) above the boom to mast clamp using the
3/8" hardware provided. Position the truss bracket
on the same side of the mast as the boom to
mast clamp. Unscrew the turnbuckle ends until
there is 1/2" (1.2 cm) of thread remaining. Place the jaw of each turnbuckle (23)
into the holes of the truss bracket. Place a thimble (59) on the eye of each
turnbuckle. Place three loose cable clamps (24) onto the cable end. Reference
Figure 9 and place the cable clamp saddle over the load bearing cable. The load
bearing cable is the cable that attaches to the boom end. Feed the cable through
a turnbuckle eye. Run the cable back through the cable clamps. Place three
additional cable clamps on the end of the cable. Feed the cable through the other
turnbuckle eye. Run the cable back through the cable clamps. Feed enough cable
through these parts until the center of the Phillystran cable coil is located at the
truss bracket. Insure there is enough slack in the cable to form a loose safety
loop between the turnbuckles. Tighten the cable clamps beginning with the clamp
closest to the thimble.

59

SAFETY

LOOP

Figure 9

23

Load bearing
strand lays in

bottom of saddle.

Bottom of saddle

208

207

91

35

23

3209

59

24

24

ID Part # Description Dimensions Qty

22 094622 Phillystran 1/8” x 35’ 1

24 024624 Cable 1/8” 12

23 024623 Turnbuckle 5/16”-4” 2

91 194791 Truss 2” x 42” x 1/8” 1

35 170035 Aluminum 2-1/2” 1

Cable (.3 x 10.7m)

Clamp (.3 cm)

(.79-10.2 cm)

Bracket (5.1 x 10.2 x .3 cm)

V-Block (6.3 cm)

59 024259 Thimble 1/8” 4

207 010207 SS Flat 3/8” 2

208 010208 SS Lock 3/8” 2

Washer (.95 cm)

Washer (.95 cm)

209 010209 SS Nut 3/8” 2

3209 013209 U-Bolt 2-7/8” 1

(.3 cm)

(.95 cm)

(7.3 cm)

Refer to Figure 4B for attachment of the cable to the boom ends. Place a thimble
(59) on the 1/4-20 x 1" bolt. Place three loose cable clamps (24) onto the cable
end. Feed the cable end through the element bracket and around the thimble. Run the cable back through the cable clamps. Tighten the cable to remove the
majority of the sag from the boom. Space the cable clamps 2 inches (5.1 cm) apart. Insure the load bearing cable is seated in the cable clamp saddle as
shown above. Tighten the cable clamps beginning with the clamp closest to the thimble. Cut off excess cable 2” (5.1 cm) after the third cable clamp.

Adjust each turnbuckle to bring each boom end level with the center. Phillystran cable has a minimal amount of stretch over time. A safety wire can be placed
through the turnbuckle openings to keep the turnbuckles from unscrewing.

Tuning Procedure

The X9 does not require tuning. The broadband VSWR characteristics of the log cell can not be improved by adjusting element lengths. Varying the
element dimensions from those suggested in this manual is not recommended. For help with tuning, please contact Cushcraft technical support.

SPECIFICATIONS

Frequency Coverage (Meters) 10, 15, 20
Total number of Elements 9
Maximum Gain (dBi) 20M 13.0 @ 14 deg

@ One Wavelength 15M 13.9 @ 12 deg

above ground 10M 14.0 @ 15 deg

Free Space Gain (dBi) 20M 8.25

15M 9.75

10M 9.75
Maximum Front to Back Ratio (dB) 30
Number of Elements per Band 4*
VSWR Minimum 1.1:1
VSWR 1.5:1 Bandwidth (KHz) 20M 350

15M 450

10M 1500

Longest Element, ft (m) 36.5 (11.12)
Turning Radius, ft (m) 21.7 (6.61)
Boom Length, ft (m) 28 (8.53)
Boom Diameter, in (cm) 2-1/2 (6.35)
Maximum Mast Diameter OD, in (cm) 2-1/2 (6.35)
Maximum Wind Survival, mph (kph) >100 (>161)
Maximum Wind Surface Area, ft
Windload @ 80 mph, lb (kg) 255 (116)
Maximum Power Handling (KW) 2
Weight, lb. (kg) 85 (38.5)
Design Safety Factor 1.25

* 6 active elements on 10 meters

2

(m2) 9.9 (.92)

COMMUNICATIONS ANTENNAS

48 Perimeter Road, Manchester NH 03103 USA • Telephone: [phone] • Fax: [phone] • E-mail: [e-mail]

Web Site: http://www.cushcraft.com • International - Tel: [phone] • Fax:[phone]