DX Engineering DXE-7580FS-VA-1 Instructions manual

75/80 Meter
Full Size
Quarter-Wave
Vertical
Antenna

DXE-7580FS-VA-1

DXE-7580FS-VA-1-INS Revision 3b

© DX Engineering 2019
1200 Southeast Ave. - Tallmadge, OH 44278 USA
Phone: [phone] ∙ Tech Support and International: [phone]
Fax: [phone] ∙ E-mail: [e-mail]

Table of Contents

Introduction

2

Features

2

Supplied Items for Complete Installation

2

Manual Updates

2

Additional Material Needed, not Supplied

3

Parts List for the DXE-7580FS-VA-1

4

Tools Required

4

Warning

5

Overhead Power Line Safety

5

Installation

5

Site Selection

5

Radial System

5

Mounting Pipe

7

Assembly

8

Radial Plate to Mounting Pipe

8

Attaching Ground Radial Wires to the Radial Plate

9

Tilt Base to Mounting Pipe

9

Vertical Base Section

10

Base Section to Tilt Base

11

Assembling the Vertical Element Sections

13

Mating the Vertical Elements to the Tilt Base

16

Guy Rope and Anchor Installation

16

Raising The Vertical

16

Feedline Connection

18

Tuning the Vertical

18

Technical Support and Warranty

19

- 1 -

Introduction

The DX Engineering DXE-7580FS-VA-1 is a high performance 68 foot full size quarter-wave
75/80 meter vertical antenna that is tunable to operate over segments of the entire band with an
SWR of 1.5:1 or less. Designed with 6063 corrosion-resistant aluminum tubing and stainless steel
hardware, this antenna is very durable and attractive.

A breakthrough in a FULL SIZE quarter-wave high-performance antenna. The slim lines of this
antenna can hide in even a small stand of tall trees. Some have painted the antenna a color to match
the bark of the surrounding trees.

Guying is usually at 2 or 3 levels. With an outstanding 456 to 528 kHz 2:1 bandwidth, depending on
your radial field, your internal tuner can get SWR down to 1:1 on any DXing frequency for
maximum power transfer.

The key to performance is a good ground radial system. 32 radials, 65 feet long are recommended.
Fewer radials will work, but with diminished results.

Features

 Ultra-WIDE SWR Bandwidth and Unbeaten Gain
 Highest Wind Ratings - High Strength 6063/6061 Tubing Manufactured to DX Engineering

Specifications

 Easy Tilt Up and Down - Specially Manufactured Patented Stainless Steel Tilt Base

 High Power Handling Capacity - High Strength, UV Protected Extren® Insulator
 No Rust - 100% Stainless Steel Tubing Clamps and Hardware
 Reliability Second to None - Specially Manufactured Stainless and Aluminum Saddle

Clamps, Stainless Bolts and Precision Machining on each antenna

 Full 1,500 watt legal limit power rating

Supplied Installation Item:

 Tilt Base - (US patent 7,432,875), Precision cut from 3/16 inch thick 304 Stainless Steel,

this mounting plate is virtually indestructible. Mounts to the same mast that you use for the
radial plate. Allows for easy installation, tuning or severe weather lay-down.

Manual Updates

Every effort is made to supply the latest manual revision with each product. Occasionally a manual
will be updated between the time your DX Engineering product is shipped and when you receive it.
Please check the DX Engineering web site (www.dxengineering.com) for the latest revision manual.

- 2 -

Additional Material Needed but not Supplied:

 Antenna Mounting - Steel mounting pipe, up to 2.0” OD, 0.25” wall thickness. A standard

1-1/2" galvanized water pipe (with its 1.9" OD) will work for this application and can
usually be found at your local home building supply store. DX Engineering also has the
DXE-VGMT-2CG Steel tubing for ground mount antennas made from high strength
Chromoly: 2 inch OD x .25 wall thickness x 5 foot 4 inch length.

 Quik-Set Concrete - Mounting pipe installation
 JTL-12555 Jet-Lube™ SS-30 Anti-Seize - To ensure good connection on aluminum and on

the threads of the Stainless Steel Hardware to prevent galling and aid in proper tightening
torque.

 DXE-RADP-3 - Radial Plate (US Patents 6,927,740 & D533,167): The most effective way

to connect those essential radial wires and the feedline coax to your vertical antenna for the
maximum efficiency and strongest signals. All stainless construction and includes 20 sets of
radial connection hardware. Additional radial components available.

 DXE-RADW - Radial Wire Kits and Components. To achieve optimal performance with a

ground-mounted vertical, install as many radials as possible. These bulk radial wire kits
use 14 gage stranded copper wire with a relaxed black PVC insulation that is UV resistant,
hard to see and lays down easily, unlike the wire that is commonly available at the big box
stores. It will last much longer in contact with soil than bare wire.

 DXE-SSVC-2P V-Clamp. One is required for the optional DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate.
 DXE-UHF-FDFB-KIT - The DX Engineering Silver Plated Female SecureMount™

Bulkhead Connector for a clean and quality feedline connection.

 Guy Rope and Anchors – DXE-GUY400-KIT contains 4 screw-in earth anchors and four

100 foot rolls of Dacron/polyester rope to guy the DXE-7580FS-VA-1 at two or three levels
in four directions. Additional guy rope is available from DX Engineering in several
diameters and lengths.

The use of an antenna analyzer such as the Rig Expert (REU-AA-35ZOOM, 55ZOOM or
230ZOOM) will facilitate the fine tuning of the vertical.

Ground conductivity as well as the number of radials and their length can affect tuning parameters.
The radial system used in the DX Engineering test vertical contained 32 radials, 65 ft long,
symmetrically placed around the vertical using a DX engineering Radial Plate. A minimum of 16
radials 65 ft long should be used for reasonable performance.

- 3 -

Parts List for the DXE-7580FS-VA-1

Description

Qty

Description

Qty

Tilt Base, 3/16" Laser Cut Stainless Steel

1 DXE-ECL-0500 Element Clamp

1

DXE-SSVC-2P V-Clamp

2 DXE-ECL-0625 Element Clamp

1

Tilt Base, Mast Mount Extren® Channel

1 DXE-ECL-0875 Element Clamp

2

Tilt Base Mount Plate

1 DXE-ECL-1000 Element Clamp

1

1/4-20 x 2" HH Bolt, full thread

4 DXE-ECL-1250 Element Clamp

2

1/4" Flat Washer

4 DXE-ECL-1500 Element Clamp

2

1/4" Split Washer

4 DXE-ECL-1750 Element Clamp

2

1/4" Aluminum Spacer

4 DXE-ECL-2000 Element Clamp

2

1/4-20 Hex nut

4 DXE-ECL-2250 Element Clamp

2

1/4" Fender Washer, 1" OD

4 Black Vinyl Cap

1

1/4-20 Flanged Nut

2

1/4-20 Nyloc nut

4 Feedpoint Connection Hardware

3/8" U-Bolt x 2" ID x 3.25" leg

2 Studded Band Clamp

1

2" Saddle for 3/8" U-Bolt

2 #10 Star Washer

2

3/8-16 Hex Nut

4 #10 Flat Washer

2

3/8" Split Washer

4 #10 Hex nut

2

3/8" Flat Washer

4 #10 Split Lock Washer

2

Antenna Elements

OD

(OD)

Wall Thickness

Length

Qty.

2"

(2.000")

0.120"

72"

Base Section

1

2-1/8"

(2.125")

0.058"

36"

Slit both ends

1

2"

(2.000")

0.058"

36"

Slit one end

1

1-7/8"

(1.875")

0.058"

36"

Slit one end

1

1-3/4"

(1.750")

0.058"

36"

Slit one end

1

1-5/8"

(1.625")

0.058"

72"

Slit one end

1

1-1/2"

(1.500")

0.058"

36"

Slit one end

1

1-3/8"

(1.375")

0.058"

36"

Slit one end

1

1-1/4"

(1.250")

0.058"

72"

Slit one end

1

1-1/8"

(1.125")

0.058"

72"

Slit one end

1

1"

(1.000")

0.058"

72"

Slit one end

1

7/8"

(0.875")

0.058"

72"

Slit one end

1

3/4"

(0.750")

0.058"

72"

Slit one end

1

5/8"

(0.625")

0.058"

72"

Slit one end

1

1/2"

(0.500")

0.058"

72"

Slit one end

1

3/8"

(0.375")

0.058"

36"

No slits

1

Tools Required

Two 7/16” wrenches, (one of them should be open-end)
1/2” and 7/16” socket and drive
Medium size screwdriver or 5/16” & 1/4” nut drivers for the element clamps
Tape measure
Black Felt Tip Marker.

- 4 -

WARNING!

INSTALLATION OF ANY ANTENNA NEAR POWER LINES IS DANGEROUS

Warning: Do not locate the antenna near overhead power lines or other electric light or power

circuits, or where it can come into contact with such circuits. When installing the antenna, take
extreme care not to come into contact with such circuits, because they may cause serious injury or
death.

Overhead Power Line Safety

Before you begin working, check carefully for overhead power lines in the area you will be
working. Don't assume that wires are telephone or cable lines: check with your electric utility for
advice. Although overhead power lines may appear to be insulated, often these coverings are
intended only to protect metal wires from weather conditions and may not protect you from electric
shock

Keep your distance! Remember the 10-foot rule: When carrying and using ladders and other long
tools, keep them at least 10 feet away from all overhead lines - including any lines from the power
pole to your home.

Installation

Site Selection

Select a mounting location clear from power lines and structures by a minimum of 78 feet (68 plus
10 for the 10 foot safety rule). Consider overhead power lines, utility cables and wires. The
vertical should be mounted away from local noise sources or other metallic objects which can re­radiate noise and affect the tuning, radiation pattern and SWR. Determine the direction you want the
antenna to tilt down and make sure there is adequate clearance. There should also be a clear
diameter of at least 70 feet from the antenna for the guying and radial systems that will extend away
from the antenna.

Radial System

Using an optional patented DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate greatly simplifies mounting radial wires in a
vertical installation. The DXE-RADP-3 stainless steel Radial Plate contains enough stainless
hardware sets to attach 20 radials. Additional 20 set radial connection hardware kits DXE-RADP-
HW1K are available from DX Engineering.

- 5 -

DXE-RADW - Radial Wire Kits and Components contain everything you need to make your own
radials, including steel or biodegradable lawn staples to hold the wire down, are also available.

The best way to connect the feedline to the radial plate and vertical feed point is to use a
DXE-UHF-FDFB-KIT The DX Engineering Silver Plated Female SecureMount™ Bulkhead
Connector.

A DXE-SSVC-2P V-Clamp is needed to secure the radial plate to the vertical mounting pipe.

The radial plate should be mounted to the vertical mounting pipe before the tilt base and vertical
base section. It should be as close to the ground as possible, while still allowing access to the radial
wire hardware for tightening. A one inch ground clearance is adequate.

Figure 1: Optional DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate

and DXE-UHF-FDFB-KIT SecureMount™ Bulkhead Connector

The DX Engineering Silver Plated Female SecureMount™ Bulkhead Connector (DXE-UHF-FDFB­KIT) is a high-quality silver-plated connector that provides a positive, permanently secure

connection for your coaxial cable. The two-sided SO-239 female connector has a superior silver­plated body with silver contacts to ensure the best performance for any application. The
SecureMount™ flange, which employs four mounting screws, means that the bulkhead connector
won't work loose like those with concentric nuts and washers. Once mounted to any panel or
bulkhead, the flanged bulkhead connector will provide the best possible connection and stay that
way. Additionally, when using our Radial Plate, Tower Leg Brackets or SO-239 Mounting
Brackets, the SecureMount™ Bulkhead Connectors are the best way to bond your coax to ground
this side of Cad-Welding! Unlike many common nickel-plated bulkhead connectors, our silver­plated SecureMount bulkhead connectors have no air space within their midpoint. This area of solid
and superior PTFE dielectric between the center conductor and body maintains constant impedance
and ultimate performance. See Figure 12 for details.

These connectors are not required if you order the optional DXE-VFCC-H05-A Vertical Feedline
Current Choke for connection to the base of a vertical antenna.

The use of a radial system is a key requirement for a high performance quarter wave vertical
antenna system. With a vertical antenna system, the radials are the second half of the antenna. The
radials contribute to the radiation efficiency of the entire vertical antenna system.

At a minimum, 20 radials, each 65 feet long, should be used with this antenna. Using 32 radials at
65 feet long is preferred and highly recommended. If you have very rocky or mostly sandy soil,

- 6 -

using more radials (60 to 90) and longer radials (for 80 meters 1/3-wavelength = 87 feet, 1/2­wavelength = 131 feet) may help the performance of your antenna. Extra radials help overcome
unknown poor-soil conditions, improve efficiency, and ensure the best performance possible from
the vertical antenna. DXE-RADW Radial Wire, a stranded 14 gauge PVC insulated copper wire is
suggested for the best results.

The wire radials should placed as symmetrically as possible
straight from the feedpoint around the vertical antenna and spaced
evenly, regardless of how many radials are used. Do not cross or
bunch any radial wires as this nullifies their effectiveness. If you
have limited space, put in as many straight radials as you can. The
radials must be connected to the shield of your feedline. The
DXE-RADP-3 Stainless Steel Radial Plate is an ideal optional
item which provides an excellent system for attaching radial wires
to your vertical antenna system feedpoint.

Radial wires can be laid on the roots of the grass using
biodegradable DXE-STPL Radial Wire Anchor Pins to hold them
down. Using enough staples will ensure the wires will not be
snagged by mowers, people, or animals. Grass will quickly
overgrow the radials and they will be virtually impossible to see or cause trouble. An article
describing this process is available the DX Engineering website www.dxengineering.com in the
Tech Info section. Radials can also be buried just under the surface by using a power edger to make
a slit in the soil.

Mounting Pipe

Use a customer supplied thick-walled galvanized steel mounting pipe at
least 4 feet long. This will allow approximately 2 feet or more to be below

ground and approximately 2 feet above ground. A thick-walled steel pipe 1­3/4" OD to 2" OD maximum is recommended with a minimum thickness of
1/8" (1/4" preferred) should be used. A standard 1-1/2" galvanized water
pipe (with its 1.9" OD) will work for this application and can usually be
found at your local home building supply store. DX Engineering also has the
DXE-VGMT-2CG Steel tubing for ground mount antennas made from high
strength Chromoly: 2 inch OD x .25 wall thickness x 5 foot 4 inch length.
For permanent mounting, use a post-hole digger to make the hole deep
enough to accommodate 2 feet of pipe and a couple inches of gravel at the
bottom for drainage. Set the pipe on the gravel, use the pre-mix concrete to
fill around the pipe, adding water and mixing as you fill or mix the concrete
first, then pour in the hole. Fill the hole until the concrete is level with the
ground around it. Use a level as you fill the hole to be sure the pipe is
straight. Allow to set overnight. Your location, landscape and ground
conditions may require different mounting solutions in order to have the
steel mounting pipe and the vertical antenna in a secure position. Your
ground/soil/rocky conditions may require additional mounting pipe length or method of securing.

Note: Galvanized steel, rather than aluminum, is much more suitable for mounting in concrete.

Aluminum will quickly corrode due to incompatibility with the materials used to make
concrete.

- 7 -

Assembly

Note: The following assembly instructions are based on using a 2" OD Mounting Pipe,

with the optional DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate.

Your antenna is shipped in multiple boxes. The long box contains the vertical element sections, and
an insulated U-channel. Some of the smaller tubes are inside larger ones. A smaller box contains the
tilt base and all installation hardware.

Carefully unbox the antenna and separate the various element tubes. Using scissors rather than a
knife, cut away the bubble wrap being careful not scratch the tubes. Unwrap the U-channel. Unpack
the hardware box, separate the individually marked hardware bags and lay them out for easy
identification.

Note: JTL-12555 Jet-Lube™ SS-30 Anti-Oxidant should be used between all antenna
element sections. Jet-Lube™ SS-30 is an electrical joint compound to affect a substantial
electrical connection between metal parts such as telescoping aluminum tubing or other
antenna pieces. It ensures high conductivity at all voltage levels by displacing moisture and
preventing corrosion or oxidation.

Jet-Lube™ SS-30 should also be used on all element clamps and stainless steel threaded

hardware to provide good electrical contact, prevent galling, allowing easier disassembly and to
ensure proper tightening.

Radial Plate to Mounting Pipe

Install the optional DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate on the 2" OD mounting pipe using an optional
DXE-CAVS-2P V-Bolt Saddle Clamp as shown in Figure 1. Mount the radial plate so you have

approximately 1" of space between the bottom of the plate and the ground level. This will allow
easy access to install the radial wire hardware. The DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate comes with 20 sets
of stainless steel hardware for mounting the radial wires. Mount the plate as shown in relation to
how the Tilt Base is mounted.

Figure - 1 - Optional
DXE-RADP-3
Radial Plate Installation

- 8 -

Attaching Ground Radial Wires to the Radial Plate

Using the 20 sets of supplied 1/4" stainless steel hardware (Bolt, Flat Washer, Star Washer, Split
Washer, Nut) connect the optional ground radial wires to the DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate as shown
in Figure 2. Additional hardware kits are available (DXE-RADP-1HWK) that contain 20 sets of
Radial Plate Hardware.

There are optional DX Engineering Radial Wire Kits available. DXE-RADW-500K/BD contains a
500 foot spool of 14 gauge copper stranded wire with black PVC insulation, 20 Terminal Lugs and
100 Steel or Biodegradable Lawn Staples. The DXE-RADW-1000K/BD Radial Wire Kit contains a
1,000 foot spool of 14 gauge copper stranded wire with black PVC insulation, 40 Terminal Lugs
and 200 Steel or Biodegradable Lawn Staples. RADW-20RT, -32RT or -65RT contain 20 each
radial wires with 1/4" terminal attached. These kits come in 20 Ft, 32 Ft, or 65Ft lengths.

Depending on the number of radial wires used, space
them out evenly around the Radial Plate. The Radial
Plate will accommodate up to 60 radial wires (60 laser
drilled holes), or up to 120 radials if doubled up.

Figure - 2 - Radial Wire Hardware Installation

Tilt Base to Mounting Pipe

Install the Tilt Base to the 2" OD mounting
pipe using two DXE-SSVC-2P V-Clamps
allowing approximately 7" clearance
between the bottom of the tilt base plate, to
the top of the DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate as
shown in Figure 3. A standard 1-1/2"
galvanized water pipe (with its 1.9" OD)
will work for this application and can
usually be found at your local home building
supply store. DX Engineering also has the
DXE-VGMT-2CG Steel tubing for ground
mount antennas made from high strength
Chromoly: 2 inch OD x .25 wall thickness x
5 foot 4 inch length. Make sure the Tilt Base
and optional DXE-RADP-3 Radial Plate are
oriented correctly for the direction you wish
to tilt the antenna. Tighten the clamps
evenly so the length of the exposed threads
is approximately equal. Any clamp should
be tightened evenly from side-to-side with
an equal amount of thread above each nut.

Figure - 3

- 9 -

Vertical Base Section

The base section is made up of an insulated mounting channel with hardware, a mounting plate, two
U-Bolt assemblies and the base antenna section which is 2" OD and 36" long.

Using Figure 4, attach the aluminum backing plate to the back of the Extren® insulated channel.
The base hardware kit contains four 2" hex bolts, four flat washers, four aluminum spacers, four
split washers and four hex nuts. From the inside of the channel, insert a 2" bolt with a flat washer
through each of the middle four holes, through the backing plate. Put on the aluminum spacer, a
split washer and a plain hex nut. Tighten firmly, but not enough to crush the insulated channel.

Figure - 4

Install the lower base section element (2” OD x 72” x .120” wall
thickness) to the insulated channel using the two 3/8" x 2" U­Bolts, two saddle clamps, four flat washers, four split washers,
and four nuts as shown in Figure 5.

The base section tube should extend 1-1/4" beyond the bottom of
the U-bolt clamp. When tightening, observe the split washers.
When they fully seat (flatten out), the clamp is tight enough. Any
clamp should be tightened evenly from side-to-side with an equal
amount of thread above each nut.

Figure - 5

- 10 -

Base Section to Tilt Base

Place the Lower Base Section into the holes of the Tilt Base and loosely install the Tilt Base
mounting hardware shown in Figure 6.

Figure - 6

Using a wrench or nut driver, securely tighten the two Nyloc Nuts at the bottom of the Tilt Base.
Then loosen them one-half turn each. This will allow proper movement of the Tilt Base while
raising or lowering the antenna. It is not necessary to tighten these nuts more securely unless further
tilt operation is no longer required. They should not be loosened more than one-half turn at any
time.

Test the tilt function to ensure proper clearances. Standing in front of the Tilt Base, lift the antenna
base section, slide it to the right, and let it down slightly until the lower outside bolt is resting in the
pivot point. Then slowly tilt as shown in Figure 7. Make sure when you are tilting the antenna to
lift, slide to the right, and then tilt. Be careful to keep the pivot bolt resting in the pivot point.
Reverse the process when raising the antenna.

- 11 -

It is important to note that the lower, outside bolt becomes the pivot point while raising or lowering
the antenna. This pivot bolt MUST be retained in the pivot point. It seems natural to push the
antenna toward the Tilt Base while raising. Push up while raising, but not toward the base since this
could cause the pivot bolt to lift out of the slot and allow the mechanism to bind up and bend the
lower bolts. This is a large antenna and should be raised or lowered carefully.

Figure 7

Make sure the guy ropes are in the clear before you begin. It maybe helpful to tape over the element
clamps to keep the ropes from getting hung on them as you raise the antenna. Starting from the top
of the antenna, walk it up slowly using an overhead hand-over-hand motion, maintaining a slow and
steady pace. It is recommended to have someone pulling on the back guy ropes for additional help
in raising the antenna. A helper should use a push-up pole constructed of an 8 or 10 foot 2" x 4"
board with small boards nailed to each side of one end in the form of a fork may be used to push up
the antenna during the first stages of raising it.

The antenna mounting channel must be kept in alignment with the Tilt Base plate to prevent binding
until it is positioned in the Tilt Base. Once the antenna is vertical, slide the antenna to the left,
toward the Tilt Base mounting pipe to allow the two parts of the Tilt Base to line up and drop down
into the slots. Lightly tighten the top flange nuts on the Tilt Base to hold the antenna.

Note: As you raise the antenna to the vertical
position, it’s important to maintain the alignment
between the antenna mounting channel and the
Tilt Base backing plate to minimize binding. Make
sure the lower tilt-base bolts are not excessively
loose before raising. They should be first
tightened securely and then backed off no more
than 1/2 turn.

The Tilt Base is not made to support the whole antenna by itself when tilted. When the antenna is
tilted over, ensure you have some sort of table, stand, or saw horse to set the antenna on to aid in
supporting the weight. When the antenna is in the upright position, ensure the mounting hardware
(reference Figure 6) is tightened.

A pair of sawhorses or ladders should be used to support the vertical sections during assembly with
the tilt-base and whenever the vertical is tilted down. Do not allow the Tilt Base to support the
entire weight of the vertical antenna when in the horizontal position.

- 12 -

Assembling the Vertical Element Sections

Caution

Aluminum tubing edges can be very sharp.

Take precautions to ensure you do not get accidentally cut.

Note: JTL-12555 Jet-Lube™ SS-30 Anti-Oxidant should be used between all antenna

element sections. Jet-Lube™ SS-30 is an electrical joint compound to affect a substantial
electrical connection between metal parts such as telescoping aluminum tubing or other
antenna pieces. It ensures high conductivity at all voltage levels by displacing moisture and
preventing corrosion or oxidation.

Jet-Lube™ SS-30 should also be used on all element clamps and stainless steel threaded
hardware to provide good electrical contact, prevent galling, allowing easier disassembly and to
ensure proper tightening.

When assembling any telescoping aluminum tubing sections you should take the following steps:

1. Make sure the edges are smooth and not sharp. Deburring may be necessary, since burrs and
shavings can occur on seams as well as edges. All surfaces need to be completely smooth to
allow easy assembly of tubing sections.

The raised particles and shavings that appear when the aluminum tubing is machined are
referred to as burrs, and the process by which they are removed is known as deburring.

Deburring is a finishing method used in manufacturing. DX Engineering aluminum tubing is

machine cut on both ends and machine slit on one end and you should further assure that there
are no ragged edges or protrusions.

Use the DXE-22166 Slim Grip Deburring Tool, or the DXE-22600 Deburring Tool with

Extending Handle and Extra Blades for this operation.

2. Clean the inside of the aluminum tubing to clear out any dirt or foreign material that would
cause the aluminum tubing sections to bind during assembly. Do not use any type of oil or
general lubricant between the aluminum tubing sections. Oils or general lubricants can cause
poor electrical connections for radio frequencies.

3. Clean the outside of the aluminum tubing to clear any dirt or foreign material that would cause
the clamps to malfunction during assembly.

4. The use of JTL-12555 Jet-Lube™ SS-30 is highly recommended. Jet-Lube™ SS-30 is an
electrical joint compound which effects a substantial electrical connection between metal parts
such as telescoping aluminum tubing or other antenna pieces. Using Jet-Lube™ SS-30 assures
high conductivity at all voltage levels by displacing moisture and preventing corrosion or
oxidation.

5. When assembling the aluminum tubing sections, ensure the area is clear of grass, dirt or other
foreign material that could cause problems during assembly of the closely fitted telescoping
sections.

- 13 -

Assemble the vertical element sections in an area that is flat and has sufficient room for the length
of the antenna (68 feet) during assembly. Lay the tubing out in descending OD sizes. Orient the slits
in the tubes toward the top of the antenna.

Mark each section for the
overlap as shown in Figure 8.
A dark color felt-tip marker
works well. Measure and mark
from the end of each tube using
the marker so it will be clearly
visible.

Locate the hardware pack
containing element clamps.
Refer to Figure 10 for clamp
sizes and placement. Slide all
the clamps over each section
before putting them together.
You can lightly tighten the
clamps in each section to hold
them until needed. Align the
element clamp screws on each
element to face the same
direction. At final assembly,
body of the element clamp
should be positioned between
the slits in the tubes and 1/8"
from the edge of each tube as
shown in Figure 9.

Figure - 9
Using Figure 10 on the next

page for dimensions, assemble
the element sections.

Making sure dirt or grass does
not adhere to the elements to be
joined. Position the element
clamp approximately 1/4” to
1/2” from the end.

Figure 8 - Vertical Elements

- 14 -

Make sure the body of the element clamp is positioned
between the slits and tighten securely.

Repeat the procedure with remaining elements. Refer to
Figure 10 for clamp sizes and placement.

Continue mating the smaller elements inside the larger ones.
Double-check the vertical element sections you have just
assembled. Total overall length before tuning should
measure 68 feet, 4 inches.

The black vinyl cap is installed on the top element section.

Figure 10 - 7580FS-VA-1
Element Dimensions

Drawing is not to scale

- 15 -

Mating the Vertical Element Sections to the Tilt Base

CAUTION: Attempting final assembly without proper precaution can be dangerous.

You should have someone help you steady the vertical antenna sections during

mating with the base section.

Note: A pair of sawhorses or ladders should be used to support the vertical sections during

assembly with the tilt-base and whenever the vertical is tilted down. Do not allow the
tilt-base to support the entire weight of the vertical antenna when in the horizontal
position.

Mate the vertical element sections to the base element tube section by sliding the bottom 2-1/8"
element of the vertical over the 2" base section element tube to the 4” mark you previously made.
See Figures 8 and 10. The two element sections will have a snug fit, so use a small amount of
Penetrox A on the bottom element section to make the fit easier. Slide the element clamp down to
the edge of the bottom section, between the slits, and tighten. For fine tuning, you can adjust this
bottom section inward or the very top section inward or outward. See the Tuning the Vertical
section in this manual.

Guy Rope and Anchor Installation

Guying is required on this as well as any other vertical antenna, especially in areas where it is windy
or susceptible to wind gusts. Four screw-in earth anchors and sufficient antenna rope are available
as model DXE-GUY1000-KIT to allow guying of the antenna at three levels in four directions.
Rule-of-thumb engineering suggests the distance of the anchors from the antenna base should be
equal to the height of the highest guy level. This provides a 45-degree guy angle. The guy ropes
should be fastened just above an element clamp using a non-slip knot as shown in Figure 11.

The set of four earth anchors may be augured into the ground approximately 35 to 50 feet from the
antenna base to fasten the guy lines. When you install the earth anchors, make sure one of them is
placed exactly opposite the direction toward which the antenna will tilt over. The others should
then be evenly spaced. You may find it easier to first install and raise only the sections of tubing up
to the lower set of guy ropes. This will allow you to establish the correct length and tie off the
ropes. Then, you can disconnect the guy rope toward the rear and, leaving the others fastened,
lower the partial sections for final assembly. The remaining ropes will provide stability as the
antenna assembly is raised.

Raising the Vertical

It is strongly recommended that you have help when you raise this antenna. The Tilt Base

certainly makes it easier however, this antenna is 68 feet long and can be challenging to put up the
first time or with gusty winds. If you have properly laid out your guy system in advance, they will
help keep the vertical stable as you raise it – stop you from going beyond vertical at the apex of the
lift and help keep the antenna parallel to the tilt base.

- 16 -

Make sure the guy ropes are in the clear before you begin. It maybe helpful to tape over the element
clamps to keep the ropes from getting hung on them as you raise the antenna. Starting from the top
of the antenna, walk it up slowly using an overhead hand-over-hand motion, maintaining a slow and
steady pace. It is recommended to have someone pulling on the back guy ropes for additional help
in raising the antenna. A helper may also use a push-up pole constructed of an 8 or 10 foot 2" x 4"
board with small boards nailed to each side of one end in the form of a fork may be used to push up
the antenna during the first stages of raising it.

The antenna mounting channel must be kept in alignment with the Tilt Base plate to prevent
binding until it is positioned in the Tilt Base (see page 12). Once the antenna is vertical slide the
antenna to the left toward the Tilt Base mounting pipe to allow the two parts of the Tilt Base to line
up and drop down into the slots. Tighten the four nuts on the Tilt Base when done raising the
antenna..

Note: As you raise the antenna to the vertical position, it’s important to maintain the alignment

between the antenna mounting channel and the Tilt Base backing plate to minimize
binding. Make sure the lower tilt-base bolts are not excessively loose before raising.

The bolts should be first tightened securely and then backed off no more than 1/2 turn.

Figure 11 - Guying example - your installation may vary.

- 17 -

Feedline Connection

Figure 12 - Feedline Connection using the optional Bulkhead Connector

Install the Studded Band Clamp on the lower Base Section as shown in Figure 12. The Studded
Band Clamp is the feedpoint connection for the vertical elements. Use a small amount of Penetrox
between the clamp and the lower base section to insure a good electrical connection. As shown
above, use the optional DXE-UHF-FDFB-KIT the SecureMount™ Double SO-239 Bulkhead
Connector and the DXE-FP-WIRE-P Feed wire with PL-259 and wire with ring terminal installed
on the optional Radial Plate for the most efficient means of feeding the antenna and tying in the
radial field.

Make sure all connections are tight.

If an optional DXE-VFCC-H05-A Vertical Feedline Current Choke is
used, the bulkhead connector is not used. The coaxial feedline connects
directly to the input of the Vertical Feedline Current Choke. Reference
the manual for the DXE-VFCC-H05-A Vertical Feedline Current Choke
for more details.

Tuning the Vertical

It’s best to use an antenna analyzer such as the Rig Expert REU­230ZOOM for determining antenna resonance. Use the X=0 an +/- j0
readings to determine the resonant frequency. The SWR will be adjusted
by the impedance matching assembly mounted at the feed point once the
vertical is resonant at the desired frequency.

- 18 -

The DXE-7580FS-VA-1 should resonate at approximately 3.6 MHz with the recommended ground
radial system installed and the vertical dimensions as shown in Figure 10. Resonance is adjusted
by the length of the vertical element sections.

If you are having trouble achieving resonance, make sure the element section lengths are correct.
Make sure you have at least 16 radials (32 are better), 65 feet long, symmetrically placed around the
vertical. Our test vertical employed 32 radials, 65 feet long. The difference in resonance from 16 to
32 radials is about 30 kHz.

The antenna resonant frequency may be centered at any point by merely adjusting the overall
length. To raise the base resonant frequency, shorten the element tubing stack. Adjusting the
vertical base measurement in Figure 10 will move the resonant frequency 20 to 30 kHz.

Measurements are taken from the bottom of the base element tube to the first vertical element
section. To ensure sufficient nesting of the base tube, do not go less than 4" of separation. The more
of the base element tube that is nested, the stronger the bottom section will be. For maximum
strength, the base section can be nested until it is slightly above the top clamp on the tilt-base. If a
larger excursion is desired, the antenna should be lowered and the length adjustment made to the
highest element section.

As a rule of thumb, one foot of length should be approximately 50 kHz in frequency. A shorter
antenna length = higher frequency and a longer antenna length = lower frequency.

Technical Support

If you have questions about this product, or if you experience difficulties during the installation,
contact DX Engineering at [phone]. You can also e-mail us at:

[e-mail]

For best service, please take a few minutes to review this manual before you call.

Warranty

All products manufactured by DX Engineering are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from date of shipment. DX Engineering’s sole obligation
under these warranties shall be to issue credit, repair or replace any item or part thereof which is proved to be other than as warranted; no allowance shall be made for any labor charges of Buyer for
replacement of parts, adjustment or repairs, or any other work, unless such charges are authorized in advance by DX Engineering. If DX Engineering’s products are claimed to be defective in material
or workmanship, DX Engineering shall, upon prompt notice thereof, issue shipping instructions for return to DX Engineering (transportation-charges prepaid by Buyer). Every such claim for breach of
these warranties shall be deemed to be waived by Buyer unless made in writing. The above warranties shall not extend to any products or parts thereof which have been subjected to any misuse or
neglect, damaged by accident, rendered defective by reason of improper installation, damaged from severe weather including floods, or abnormal environmental conditions such as prolonged exposure
to corrosives or power surges, or by the performance of repairs or alterations outside of our plant, and shall not apply to any goods or parts thereof furnished by Buyer or acquired from others at

Buyer’s specifications. In addition, DX Engineering’s warranties do not extend to other equipment and parts manufactured by others except to the extent of the original manufacturer’s warranty to DX

Engineering. The obligations under the foregoing warranties are limited to the precise terms thereof. These warranties provide exclusive remedies, expressly in lieu of all other remedies including
claims for special or consequential damages. SELLER NEITHER MAKES NOR ASSUMES ANY OTHER WARRANTY WHATSOEVER, WHETHER EXPRESS, STATUTORY, OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS, AND NO PERSON IS AUTHORIZED TO ASSUME FOR DX ENGINEERING ANY OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY
NOT STRICTLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOREGOING.

©DX Engineering 2019

DX Engineering®, DXE®, DX Engineering, Inc.®, Hot Rodz®, Maxi-Core®, DX Engineering THUNDERBOLT®, DX Engineering Yagi Mechanical®, EZ-BUILD®, TELREX®, Gorilla Grip® Stainless
Steel Boom Clamps, Butternut®, SkyHawk™, SkyLark™, SecureMount™, OMNI-TILT™, RF-PRO-1B®, AFHD-4® are trademarks of PDS Electronics, Inc. No license to use or reproduce any of
these trademarks or other trademarks is given or implied. All other brands and product names are the trademarks of their respective owners.

Specifications subject to change without notice.

- 19 -