W2MMD Clubhouse Operations
Clubhouse History, Projects, Modifications, Additions
W2MMD Clubhouse
Gloucester County 4-H Fairgrounds
235 Bridgeton Pike (Rt 77)
Mullica Hill, NJ, 08062
Gloucester County 4-H Fairgrounds
235 Bridgeton Pike (Rt 77)
Mullica Hill, NJ, 08062
GPS Heading : 39.717000°, -75.209950°
November 4, 2023 : Al Arrison, KB2AYU,
Working on the trailer tower antennas
Two Major Projects On A Great Club Project Day
By Jon Pearce, WB2MNF
GCARC Club volunteers turned out on Sunday, October 22, 2023 and completed two significant projects, one related to the VHF station and another to the satellite station.
One team worked on the lightning protection project for the VHF room while the other tested a new rotator for the satellite station and removed and diagnosed the old non-functioning rotators.
Participating were :
Lightning Protection Project
The lightning protection project for the VHF station had largely been completed indoors, but the copper strips surrounding the VHF room were not yet connected to any external grounds. Accomplishing this was the primary focus of this work day. For each of two ground rods a 9 foot trench needed to be dug between the Clubhouse and shed, copper stripping had to be run from the inside of the Clubhouse to the end of the trench, and an 8 foot ground rod needed to be pounded into the soil and finally connected to the copper strip. Frank N3PUU put out a call for help on Friday and nine volunteers showed up with picks, shovels, and other excavation equipment.
Digging the trenches in the rocky soil was the most time consuming part. Once that was done, copper stripping was run from the inside of the Clubhouse through a slot in the floor and through the length of the trench. The ground rods then needed to be pounded into the ground, which was greatly facilitated by a powered hammer that Frank had brought. Once that strap was installed it was clamped to the copper strap, a bucket was placed over that connection to facilitate subsequent access, and the trench was filled in with dirt. Later that day the heavy cable was run the length of the Clubhouse to connect the grounding system at the HF side with this system. This installation provides the beginning of a comprehensive grounding system for both areas of the Clubhouse.
Reworking The Satellite Antennas
Several weeks ago the satellite rotators experienced a strange anomaly when both the azimuth and elevation rotators ceased functioning while a transformer in the rotator control box was also burned out. Fortunately we had a spare azimuth rotator that we could connect at the top side of the rotator cable to attempt to localize whether the issue was within the rotators themselves or somewhere in the control and cabling circuitry. So Al KB2AYU climbed the satellite tower with the new rotator, disconnected the old rotator and connected the control cable to the new rotator while Chris AD2CS and I checked to see if it worked correctly (it did). This meant that both the azimuth and elevation rotators on the tower were faulty and needed to be replaced. Unfortunately, both antennas needed to be removed to take off the rotators, so Mike KG4JYA and I climbed to the roof while Al rotated the antennas so that we could reach and remove them.
With the antennas off Al was able to remove both rotators and the fiberglass mast and lower them down to Chris, who took them inside and began disassembling them to diagnose the cause of their aberrant behavior. We subsequently purchased another elevation rotator, and the two rotators and the antennas will be installed over the next few weeks bringing the satellite station back to operational status.
Wrap-Up
With all the potential that the Clubhouse provides for its members it's extremely satisfying to see a large group like this come out to work on projects that expand the Club's capabilities. Over the next few months as the VHF tower work gets started we'll need even more assistance in building up those capabilities, and hopefully we can attract additional members to help in these efforts.
By Jon Pearce, WB2MNF
GCARC Club volunteers turned out on Sunday, October 22, 2023 and completed two significant projects, one related to the VHF station and another to the satellite station.
One team worked on the lightning protection project for the VHF room while the other tested a new rotator for the satellite station and removed and diagnosed the old non-functioning rotators.
Participating were :
- Mike KG4JYA
- Lee WA2LH
- Marc WM2Y
- Earl KC2NCH
- John K2QA
- Jon WB2MNF
- Chris AD2CS
- Al KB2AYU
- Frank N3PUU
Lightning Protection Project
The lightning protection project for the VHF station had largely been completed indoors, but the copper strips surrounding the VHF room were not yet connected to any external grounds. Accomplishing this was the primary focus of this work day. For each of two ground rods a 9 foot trench needed to be dug between the Clubhouse and shed, copper stripping had to be run from the inside of the Clubhouse to the end of the trench, and an 8 foot ground rod needed to be pounded into the soil and finally connected to the copper strip. Frank N3PUU put out a call for help on Friday and nine volunteers showed up with picks, shovels, and other excavation equipment.
Digging the trenches in the rocky soil was the most time consuming part. Once that was done, copper stripping was run from the inside of the Clubhouse through a slot in the floor and through the length of the trench. The ground rods then needed to be pounded into the ground, which was greatly facilitated by a powered hammer that Frank had brought. Once that strap was installed it was clamped to the copper strap, a bucket was placed over that connection to facilitate subsequent access, and the trench was filled in with dirt. Later that day the heavy cable was run the length of the Clubhouse to connect the grounding system at the HF side with this system. This installation provides the beginning of a comprehensive grounding system for both areas of the Clubhouse.
Reworking The Satellite Antennas
Several weeks ago the satellite rotators experienced a strange anomaly when both the azimuth and elevation rotators ceased functioning while a transformer in the rotator control box was also burned out. Fortunately we had a spare azimuth rotator that we could connect at the top side of the rotator cable to attempt to localize whether the issue was within the rotators themselves or somewhere in the control and cabling circuitry. So Al KB2AYU climbed the satellite tower with the new rotator, disconnected the old rotator and connected the control cable to the new rotator while Chris AD2CS and I checked to see if it worked correctly (it did). This meant that both the azimuth and elevation rotators on the tower were faulty and needed to be replaced. Unfortunately, both antennas needed to be removed to take off the rotators, so Mike KG4JYA and I climbed to the roof while Al rotated the antennas so that we could reach and remove them.
With the antennas off Al was able to remove both rotators and the fiberglass mast and lower them down to Chris, who took them inside and began disassembling them to diagnose the cause of their aberrant behavior. We subsequently purchased another elevation rotator, and the two rotators and the antennas will be installed over the next few weeks bringing the satellite station back to operational status.
Wrap-Up
With all the potential that the Clubhouse provides for its members it's extremely satisfying to see a large group like this come out to work on projects that expand the Club's capabilities. Over the next few months as the VHF tower work gets started we'll need even more assistance in building up those capabilities, and hopefully we can attract additional members to help in these efforts.
New Club Sign
August 2022
W2MMD Clubhouse Test & Repair Bench
Equipment and Supplies List
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On Saturday, July 16, 2022, a small group of GCARC members got together to complete one of the many outstanding clubhouse tasks, which was to paint the shed and strip and paint the steps. Karl W2KBF, Chris AD2CS, Mike N2WOQ, Ron NR2B, Len W2LJR, Earl KC2NCH, John K2ZA, and Jon WB2MNF, were out working on that project while Al KB2AYU was stringing the cables for the new HF tower.
In spite of the heat and humidity the group was able to get two coats of paint on the shed and strip much of the paint off of the front and rear steps of the Clubhouse. A new front railing was installed and primed with a final paint coat to be applied later.
The paint was easily stripped off of the back steps, with most of it coming off in large sheets and revealing wet pressure-treated wood underneath. When it's dry it will be sanded, the rusted screws will be replaced and it will be left unpainted.
Chris also replaced both front floodlights with LED lights.
In spite of the heat and humidity the group was able to get two coats of paint on the shed and strip much of the paint off of the front and rear steps of the Clubhouse. A new front railing was installed and primed with a final paint coat to be applied later.
The paint was easily stripped off of the back steps, with most of it coming off in large sheets and revealing wet pressure-treated wood underneath. When it's dry it will be sanded, the rusted screws will be replaced and it will be left unpainted.
Chris also replaced both front floodlights with LED lights.
2023 Clubhouse Projects
"We Will Rebuild Back Better"
Come out and help us spruce up the Clubhouse! The goal is to get as many of the small projects on our whiteboard finished and off the board.
There is a job for everyone. Each and every member can contribute, and there is certainly a job that can be done by anyone who shows up.
We all benefit from having the Clubhouse, so we all should help out with these occasional work pushes. It seems as if most members are content to allow just a small handful of caring members to shoulder the load for all of us, but that is NOT how it should be. We all gain by being a part of this Club, and we should all invest a little bit of sweat equity in preserving the Club infrastructure. Besides... it can be downright FUN and it gives a great and warm sense of accomplishment when finished!
There is a job for everyone. Each and every member can contribute, and there is certainly a job that can be done by anyone who shows up.
We all benefit from having the Clubhouse, so we all should help out with these occasional work pushes. It seems as if most members are content to allow just a small handful of caring members to shoulder the load for all of us, but that is NOT how it should be. We all gain by being a part of this Club, and we should all invest a little bit of sweat equity in preserving the Club infrastructure. Besides... it can be downright FUN and it gives a great and warm sense of accomplishment when finished!
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Shed :
Painting :
Replace Interior Front Door HF Tower :
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Front Steps :
Back Steps :
VHF/UHF Tower :
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Lightning Protection Project :
- Install copper strapping in Library Room
- Install copper strapping in VHF/UHF Room
- Complete grounding rod installation around Clubhouse and Towers
New Clubhouse Storm Door Donated and installed by Chris Prioli, AD2CS
New TV installed at the W2MMD Clubhouse. Thanks to Jon Pearce WB2MNF & family for the donation
New Clubhouse Toilet Installed on July 17, 2021 By Frank N2PUU
Shed Clean Out Day - Saturday, May 22, 2021
Highlights of the Shed Clean Out Day at the Clubhouse. Many members showed up to help out. A lot of stuff was cleaned out helping the reorganize the shed. Thanks to all who helped out.
HF Tower Fence
Shed Rebuilding
The Shed needs the following:
So, come on out, bring some tools, your hands, and some muscles. Stay for 1 hour or a few hours, it does not matter as long as you help your club!
- Build and install a ramp
- Repair electrical wiring
- Paint the new siding
- Al KB2AYU
- Jim N2GXJ
- Herb KT2Y
- Jeff WB2ZBN
- Bill NJ2S
- Jon WB2MNF
- Gary N2WHV
- Lee N2LAM
- John K2QA
So, come on out, bring some tools, your hands, and some muscles. Stay for 1 hour or a few hours, it does not matter as long as you help your club!
Clubhouse Front Steps and Picnic Tables
Clubhouse Back Door
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This is the back door to the Clubhouse. It only opens from the inside. If you are like me and you have a hard time navigating steps, the back door steps are easier to use. They start out level to the ground and end up just below the threshold of the door.
If you are coming to the Clubhouse to attend a meeting or event, you may want to try them instead of the front steps. So to park in back, instead of turning left into our driveway, proceed further down the main road and turn left at the dirt road. Follow that around to the back and park next to back door. The alarm cannot be shut-off from the back door, so someone else would have to enter through the front door to open the back door for you. Just knock (or tap out CQ CQ in Morse code) to have someone open it for you. Later on we will install a doorbell. The back door service is FREE to all members. There will be a $5.00 charge to non-members (another reason to become a member). |
New additions to Clubhouse
Clubhouse Projector : Optoma TW766W
Clubhouse Work Party
October 13, 2015 @ 1600 to 1900 Hours
On Tuesday, October 13, 2015, there was a Clubhouse Work Party organize by Bill Price, NJ2S, and Ray Martin, W2RM. The main task was to secure the clubhouse for the cold weather.
Here is the wish list for the Winter:
· Check the roof and seal all vents with tar.
· Check all siding.
· AC units weather shield.
· Check all windows.
· Weather proof steps.
· Secure trailer skirting.
· Check water pipe and heat tape.
· Check trailer piers and hold down straps.
· Mouse proof and bait on piers under trailer.
· Check existing heaters.
· Check shed for winter inside and out.
· Clean up shed storage.
· Check out shed electrical system.
· Check antennas and grounding.
· Check towers and tower base.
· Crank up tower lube and check cable.
Items that were worked on:
· Clubhouse roof checked out, caulked, and sealed.
· Heat tape for water system connected.
· Insulated the water entrance.
· Well shutoff pit sealed.
· Skirting installed at the water entrance.
· AC covers installed.
· Electric now works in the shed.
· New electrical breaker for shed.
· New electrical breaker for the heat tape.
· Windows are OK.
· Loose coax cable on crank-up tower was secured to tower.
· Mice food was put in and under the trailer, and in the shed.
Many thanks to the following who helped:
· Bill Price, NJ2S
· Ray Martin, W2RM
· Sheldon Parker, K2MEN
· Mark Gottlieb, WA2DIY
· Jeff Garth, KC2WCS
Also completed at previous date:
The junk that was piled up on the right side of the shed is cleaned up. The antenna parts have been piled up on the left side of the shed. The old siding and skirting was piled up and will be removed at a later date.
Here is the wish list for the Winter:
· Check the roof and seal all vents with tar.
· Check all siding.
· AC units weather shield.
· Check all windows.
· Weather proof steps.
· Secure trailer skirting.
· Check water pipe and heat tape.
· Check trailer piers and hold down straps.
· Mouse proof and bait on piers under trailer.
· Check existing heaters.
· Check shed for winter inside and out.
· Clean up shed storage.
· Check out shed electrical system.
· Check antennas and grounding.
· Check towers and tower base.
· Crank up tower lube and check cable.
Items that were worked on:
· Clubhouse roof checked out, caulked, and sealed.
· Heat tape for water system connected.
· Insulated the water entrance.
· Well shutoff pit sealed.
· Skirting installed at the water entrance.
· AC covers installed.
· Electric now works in the shed.
· New electrical breaker for shed.
· New electrical breaker for the heat tape.
· Windows are OK.
· Loose coax cable on crank-up tower was secured to tower.
· Mice food was put in and under the trailer, and in the shed.
Many thanks to the following who helped:
· Bill Price, NJ2S
· Ray Martin, W2RM
· Sheldon Parker, K2MEN
· Mark Gottlieb, WA2DIY
· Jeff Garth, KC2WCS
Also completed at previous date:
The junk that was piled up on the right side of the shed is cleaned up. The antenna parts have been piled up on the left side of the shed. The old siding and skirting was piled up and will be removed at a later date.
Field Day Prep - June 26, 2014
Bill Price NJ2S said that I should call for an underground markout for field day. It's done and the documentation is on the bulletin board in the site. You will see the red markout flags, so don't put any ground rods in the path of the red paint or red flags. Take note: Wally came through with the dirt that I asked him to get us and he leveled it off also. Plus the high grass is gone and the ruts are pretty much filled in. We still have dirt that is to go underneath the rest of the skirting, then whatever is left can go in the remaining ruts...
For your information all of the pictures that I have been sending out since November 2013 will be put together in an album just like the last trailer site album from 1987.
For your information all of the pictures that I have been sending out since November 2013 will be put together in an album just like the last trailer site album from 1987.
Clubhouse Work Session - June 22, 2014
Clubhouse Work Session - June 18, 2014
Clubhouse Work Session - May 21, 2014
April 28, 2014 - This morning at 10:30 AM we got our final inspection for the site. PHEW...
It's signed, sealed and delivered and pasted on the
inside cover of the main electric box. Now it's time to get the windows done-up and Al can
continue to bring the radios back and set everything up. 73's Ray W2RM
Clubhouse Replacement Project Chairman
Clubhouse Work Session - April 26, 2014
Clubhouse Work Session - April 8, 2014
Clubhouse Activities - Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Well here is the progress for today at W2MMD.
The plumber who is doing the job; his name is Dave and he works for George's Plumbing Service. He was hoping to finish the job today but his boss called him on an emergency job. So he will complete us tomorrow. We're getting close to the Certificate of Occupancy.
More next time.. Ray W2RM
Well here is the progress for today at W2MMD.
The plumber who is doing the job; his name is Dave and he works for George's Plumbing Service. He was hoping to finish the job today but his boss called him on an emergency job. So he will complete us tomorrow. We're getting close to the Certificate of Occupancy.
More next time.. Ray W2RM
Clubhouse Work Session - April 7, 2014
Clubhouse Activities - Monday, April 7, 2014
The plumber is still out there working on the water supply.
Thanks to : Bill, NJ2S; Frank, W2FJM; Kevin, KD2FFZ; Wayne, WA2LET.
The plumber will return Tuesday bright and early to finish the job.
Thanks & 73'S RAY W2RM Clubhouse Replacement Chairman
The plumber is still out there working on the water supply.
Thanks to : Bill, NJ2S; Frank, W2FJM; Kevin, KD2FFZ; Wayne, WA2LET.
The plumber will return Tuesday bright and early to finish the job.
Thanks & 73'S RAY W2RM Clubhouse Replacement Chairman
Clubhouse Work Session - April 3, 2014
Clubhouse Activities - Thursday, April 3, 2014
Well I got done earlier than I expected today so I met Bill Price NJ2S at the site for a look at the
water problem.
1. The main shutoff valve for us is located right behind the Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club sign. Bill got there before me so he opened up the lid to the valve which is down four feet. It was loaded with rocks and dirt, now Bill has a tool that can go down eight feet if needed and gently collect the stones and dirt so it can be brought to the surface. So after the access pipe was all cleaned out we looked down the pipe with a flash light and we noticed the valve wasn't in the center of the valve. It wasn't in the center because evidently someone tried to turn the water off some time ago. We managed to remove the valve stem and it's in the trailer with a note on it to not throw away. This leaves us with the problem of not being able to turn the water off to work on the valves behind the trailer.
2. Here is what we did: I knocked the terracotta down to ground level so we could see what the problem was with the leaky valve behind the trailer. After Bill "bailed out the water" we could see that the leak was actually the valve that was on the top of the main valve. It had frozen and split open. Now we tried to turn the bottom valve off but the handle on it is so rusted that we can't do that.
3. Bill is going to try and turn the main valve off with an adjustable crescent wrench. If that works he will try heating the upper valve and removing the upper valve and replace it with a new one. That will take care of the problem then Bob Durham and his son can finish the job by running the feed water to the bathroom and put an outside valve in the front of the trailer rather than one in the back. It will be located right below the bathroom under the trailer.
Next on the agenda: I want to thank Bob Durham W2RAD and his son for connecting all of the drain pipes to the septic system. They did a great job!!
Thanks guys.
73's Ray W2RM
Well I got done earlier than I expected today so I met Bill Price NJ2S at the site for a look at the
water problem.
1. The main shutoff valve for us is located right behind the Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club sign. Bill got there before me so he opened up the lid to the valve which is down four feet. It was loaded with rocks and dirt, now Bill has a tool that can go down eight feet if needed and gently collect the stones and dirt so it can be brought to the surface. So after the access pipe was all cleaned out we looked down the pipe with a flash light and we noticed the valve wasn't in the center of the valve. It wasn't in the center because evidently someone tried to turn the water off some time ago. We managed to remove the valve stem and it's in the trailer with a note on it to not throw away. This leaves us with the problem of not being able to turn the water off to work on the valves behind the trailer.
2. Here is what we did: I knocked the terracotta down to ground level so we could see what the problem was with the leaky valve behind the trailer. After Bill "bailed out the water" we could see that the leak was actually the valve that was on the top of the main valve. It had frozen and split open. Now we tried to turn the bottom valve off but the handle on it is so rusted that we can't do that.
3. Bill is going to try and turn the main valve off with an adjustable crescent wrench. If that works he will try heating the upper valve and removing the upper valve and replace it with a new one. That will take care of the problem then Bob Durham and his son can finish the job by running the feed water to the bathroom and put an outside valve in the front of the trailer rather than one in the back. It will be located right below the bathroom under the trailer.
Next on the agenda: I want to thank Bob Durham W2RAD and his son for connecting all of the drain pipes to the septic system. They did a great job!!
Thanks guys.
73's Ray W2RM
Clubhouse Work Session - March 28, 29, & 30, 2014
Clubhouse Activities - Friday, March 28, 2014
Today the following got accomplished:
Kevin Hall KD2FFZ leveled the trailer by putting in 3 more block piles on the south side of the trailer and 2 more block piles on the north side of the trailer. It's now perfectly leveled but Kevin wants to add one more block pile on the back side. The construction official for the town said that 8 on the front and back was sufficient but Kevin didn't like what he saw and when done, we will have 11 on both rows.
Bill Price NJ2S helped with the alarm system, door readjustment and installed 2 USB ports so when at the site if you have to charge your phone or IPAD you only have to plug in. Bill has an assortment of cords which he will bring out.
The alarm vendor was there and did everything he had to do so we are up and running, the only thing that has to be accomplished is the interconnect to Al Arrison, KB2AYU's home.
The front door was raised so the flooring can be finished on Saturday. One of the two exit signs was installed at the front door and as time permits the one for the back door will be installed.
One of the 3 smoke detectors is now installed outside the bathroom door in the hallway and as soon as the other two arrive they will be installed.
I am now in the process of setting up the door code entry passwords which will take some time for 120 members and then the vendor will computerize them to the system. As for now the code that you have will suffice. More will be explained at the next club meeting.
Saturday I will bring out my ICOM IC-706MK2G, power supply, auto tuner and CW key for a test run on the HF beam and 6 meter beam. Although they are pointing West things should work out fine.
See you tomorrow at 9 AM. Rain is supposed to start in mid afternoon so we should be able to
complete the flooring, including the bathroom floor and back door floor area. PS: it all takes time... Park around the back of the trailer.
Clubhouse Activities - Friday, March 28, 2014
Well more got done today, here ya go...
Tomorrow the only flooring left to do is the back door, everything else (as far as flooring goes) is done.. Yeah !!!!
The alarm vendor was back out today and installed the two remaining smoke detectors. His logo is on the windows.
The alarm code has changed, if you want to get in you have to call me for the new access code, if not the alarm will go off and the neighborhood will know there is a problem. I am working feverishly to get the new codes done and installed into the system. As soon as I can every club member will have their own code. All keypad work outside isn't done yet - soon.
Now when you leave all you have to do is hit the "ON" button and leave. More info will be given out ASAP.
I installed a lot of insulation under the bathroom and the closet where the old heater used to be by the back door and the hole in the ceiling is now covered. a lot of cold air has been stopped.
A new first: I brought my IC-706MK2G, power supply, tuner and Vibroplex key out today. We hooked it up to the HF beam antenna installed the rotor control box and went on the air.. Merrill WK2G was the first one to operate the radio.
We made a few QSO's on SSB and CW then we got back to work. The trailer is a mess but tomorrow that will end.
I have to give Kudos to John Zaruba Jr, K2ZA because he knows the radio very well and set it up for us to use today. Tnx
So: tomorrow is another day - lets come on out and participate. I will be there at 9 AM for entry. If all goes well the plumbers will be out tomorrow thanks to Bob Durham W2RAD. They might not be able to do anything outside tomorrow but they can do the interior work. I wouldn't work outside in this rain either.
Clubhouse Activities - Friday, March 28, 2014
RAIN, RAIN, RAIN... Wow what a day.
I expected to finish the floor going out the back door today but Bob Durham W2RAD and his son had to use that exit to check under the trailer for what they had to do. They became WET RIVER RATS, drenched to the bone at one time. So they concentrated on the bathroom itself. The toilet is connected to the piping going through the floor, what a job. After drilling the four inch hole in the two floors we put down yesterday they found that a steel cross member was right below it. Since I put down two layers of plywood they had room to put an offset coupling in the floor for the drain. It's not connected to anything yet due to the rain water today under the trailer.
Believe me when I tell you that the toilet will withstand any weight that is put on it..The sink has been installed but not connected to anything. The hot water heater will be the last to get connected. Bob had to go to Home Depot for different drain parts.
Underneath the trailer new piping has to be installed for the feed water and the drain piping which will have to be supported to the main steel runners of the trailer by either block or hangers. Bob and his son will take care of that soon.
My thanks to all who showed up this weekend, the same guys that showed up last weekend plus or minus a few. The trailer area inside looks pretty good, it's really coming along nicely..
Bob Durham said there is a possibility that him and his son will be able to get back to finish the job this week.
Best regards, Ray Martin W2RM Site Replacement Chairman.
Today the following got accomplished:
Kevin Hall KD2FFZ leveled the trailer by putting in 3 more block piles on the south side of the trailer and 2 more block piles on the north side of the trailer. It's now perfectly leveled but Kevin wants to add one more block pile on the back side. The construction official for the town said that 8 on the front and back was sufficient but Kevin didn't like what he saw and when done, we will have 11 on both rows.
Bill Price NJ2S helped with the alarm system, door readjustment and installed 2 USB ports so when at the site if you have to charge your phone or IPAD you only have to plug in. Bill has an assortment of cords which he will bring out.
The alarm vendor was there and did everything he had to do so we are up and running, the only thing that has to be accomplished is the interconnect to Al Arrison, KB2AYU's home.
The front door was raised so the flooring can be finished on Saturday. One of the two exit signs was installed at the front door and as time permits the one for the back door will be installed.
One of the 3 smoke detectors is now installed outside the bathroom door in the hallway and as soon as the other two arrive they will be installed.
I am now in the process of setting up the door code entry passwords which will take some time for 120 members and then the vendor will computerize them to the system. As for now the code that you have will suffice. More will be explained at the next club meeting.
Saturday I will bring out my ICOM IC-706MK2G, power supply, auto tuner and CW key for a test run on the HF beam and 6 meter beam. Although they are pointing West things should work out fine.
See you tomorrow at 9 AM. Rain is supposed to start in mid afternoon so we should be able to
complete the flooring, including the bathroom floor and back door floor area. PS: it all takes time... Park around the back of the trailer.
Clubhouse Activities - Friday, March 28, 2014
Well more got done today, here ya go...
Tomorrow the only flooring left to do is the back door, everything else (as far as flooring goes) is done.. Yeah !!!!
The alarm vendor was back out today and installed the two remaining smoke detectors. His logo is on the windows.
The alarm code has changed, if you want to get in you have to call me for the new access code, if not the alarm will go off and the neighborhood will know there is a problem. I am working feverishly to get the new codes done and installed into the system. As soon as I can every club member will have their own code. All keypad work outside isn't done yet - soon.
Now when you leave all you have to do is hit the "ON" button and leave. More info will be given out ASAP.
I installed a lot of insulation under the bathroom and the closet where the old heater used to be by the back door and the hole in the ceiling is now covered. a lot of cold air has been stopped.
A new first: I brought my IC-706MK2G, power supply, tuner and Vibroplex key out today. We hooked it up to the HF beam antenna installed the rotor control box and went on the air.. Merrill WK2G was the first one to operate the radio.
We made a few QSO's on SSB and CW then we got back to work. The trailer is a mess but tomorrow that will end.
I have to give Kudos to John Zaruba Jr, K2ZA because he knows the radio very well and set it up for us to use today. Tnx
So: tomorrow is another day - lets come on out and participate. I will be there at 9 AM for entry. If all goes well the plumbers will be out tomorrow thanks to Bob Durham W2RAD. They might not be able to do anything outside tomorrow but they can do the interior work. I wouldn't work outside in this rain either.
Clubhouse Activities - Friday, March 28, 2014
RAIN, RAIN, RAIN... Wow what a day.
I expected to finish the floor going out the back door today but Bob Durham W2RAD and his son had to use that exit to check under the trailer for what they had to do. They became WET RIVER RATS, drenched to the bone at one time. So they concentrated on the bathroom itself. The toilet is connected to the piping going through the floor, what a job. After drilling the four inch hole in the two floors we put down yesterday they found that a steel cross member was right below it. Since I put down two layers of plywood they had room to put an offset coupling in the floor for the drain. It's not connected to anything yet due to the rain water today under the trailer.
Believe me when I tell you that the toilet will withstand any weight that is put on it..The sink has been installed but not connected to anything. The hot water heater will be the last to get connected. Bob had to go to Home Depot for different drain parts.
Underneath the trailer new piping has to be installed for the feed water and the drain piping which will have to be supported to the main steel runners of the trailer by either block or hangers. Bob and his son will take care of that soon.
My thanks to all who showed up this weekend, the same guys that showed up last weekend plus or minus a few. The trailer area inside looks pretty good, it's really coming along nicely..
Bob Durham said there is a possibility that him and his son will be able to get back to finish the job this week.
Best regards, Ray Martin W2RM Site Replacement Chairman.
Clubhouse Work Session - March 22-23, 2014
Clubhouse Activities - Saturday & Sunday, March 22-23, 2014
This is the flooring we are putting in our new trailer, the Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club W2MMD - SNJ. They are 2 x 2 foot square by 1 inch thick, all interlocking. All heavy rubber material each weighing ten pounds each.
Update: Saturday was a good day as we got more done in the trailer.
Furniture and cabinets were juggled all over the place to start the installation of the flooring. By the end of the day half the trailer had the flooring installed. Everybody did a great job. I fixed the front steps so they are in good shape now and ready for paint. Plywood flooring was added in the spots where needed to facilitate the flooring.
Update: Sunday was another good day as more flooring was installed, and it now reaches to the doorway of the HF room.
Bill Price and myself pulled the coax out of the old pipe that went to the center of the new trailer and a friend of Bill's (his name is Tim) ran a new trench from the HF tower to the HF room, (we both tipped him for his work) then we pulled the coaxes and rotor control wire through to the HF room. I started to work on the bathroom floor, but found that the particle board flooring was very bad as it had water damage, so this week I will tear out that floor and put in a new double thick one for total support. I also removed all the old plastic pipes as they were brittle. Next Sunday Bob Durham will be there with people to hook up everything in the bathroom and connect the septic system. He will also put a new valve at our water main pipe outside. Bill Price will install a 120 VAC receptacle outside next to the water line.
There is still more to do and I now want to thank the members who came out to help..
Saturday: Frank W2FJM, Dan N2TXG, Bart KC2WVP, Mark W2OCY, John K2ZA, Sheldon K2MEN, Jim KD2JEQ, Mark WA2DIY, and Jeff KC2WCS.
Sunday: Chuck KD2EIB, Jim KD2JEQ, Bill NJ2S, Jeff KC2WCS, Mark W2OCY, Dan N2TXG, Kyle W2KBT, Frank W2FJM, Bob W2RAD, Kenny WB2P, Chuck WA2TML, and Bart KC2WVP.
FYI: The flooring is a very labor intensive job and it takes a lot of time, but the guys who came out this weekend did an excellent job. My hat is off to all who had the time to come out this weekend. Hopefully next weekend the floor will be completed.
Thanks Again, Ray W2RM Site Trailer Replacement Chairman....
73’s
This is the flooring we are putting in our new trailer, the Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club W2MMD - SNJ. They are 2 x 2 foot square by 1 inch thick, all interlocking. All heavy rubber material each weighing ten pounds each.
Update: Saturday was a good day as we got more done in the trailer.
Furniture and cabinets were juggled all over the place to start the installation of the flooring. By the end of the day half the trailer had the flooring installed. Everybody did a great job. I fixed the front steps so they are in good shape now and ready for paint. Plywood flooring was added in the spots where needed to facilitate the flooring.
Update: Sunday was another good day as more flooring was installed, and it now reaches to the doorway of the HF room.
Bill Price and myself pulled the coax out of the old pipe that went to the center of the new trailer and a friend of Bill's (his name is Tim) ran a new trench from the HF tower to the HF room, (we both tipped him for his work) then we pulled the coaxes and rotor control wire through to the HF room. I started to work on the bathroom floor, but found that the particle board flooring was very bad as it had water damage, so this week I will tear out that floor and put in a new double thick one for total support. I also removed all the old plastic pipes as they were brittle. Next Sunday Bob Durham will be there with people to hook up everything in the bathroom and connect the septic system. He will also put a new valve at our water main pipe outside. Bill Price will install a 120 VAC receptacle outside next to the water line.
There is still more to do and I now want to thank the members who came out to help..
Saturday: Frank W2FJM, Dan N2TXG, Bart KC2WVP, Mark W2OCY, John K2ZA, Sheldon K2MEN, Jim KD2JEQ, Mark WA2DIY, and Jeff KC2WCS.
Sunday: Chuck KD2EIB, Jim KD2JEQ, Bill NJ2S, Jeff KC2WCS, Mark W2OCY, Dan N2TXG, Kyle W2KBT, Frank W2FJM, Bob W2RAD, Kenny WB2P, Chuck WA2TML, and Bart KC2WVP.
FYI: The flooring is a very labor intensive job and it takes a lot of time, but the guys who came out this weekend did an excellent job. My hat is off to all who had the time to come out this weekend. Hopefully next weekend the floor will be completed.
Thanks Again, Ray W2RM Site Trailer Replacement Chairman....
73’s
Seven Samurai - When the mission called for the best
Spring is in the air, and so is the smell of sawdust and paint out at our new clubhouse under renovation.
Keep an eye out for emails concerning the next work party.
With some luck, your help, and a break from mother nature, wouldn’t it be great if we could have a “grand opening” later this spring?
Keep an eye out for emails concerning the next work party.
With some luck, your help, and a break from mother nature, wouldn’t it be great if we could have a “grand opening” later this spring?
Clubhouse Work Session - March 9, 2014
Clubhouse Work Session - November 24, 2013
Just needed a bigger truck!
The trailer has been moved into it's permanent home
Updated floor plan for the new Clubhouse.
To all GCARC members:
I'm pleased to report that through the efforts of club trustee, Marty Wilt, W2ILT, the Williamstown Fire Company has donated their pre-used 14' x 70' mobile home trailer to the club. The trailer was moved to the 4H grounds this past Sunday and is now located adjacent to the old trailer. Arrangements are currently underway to identify Harrison Twp construction code requirements and secure necessary permits for the new trailer. After installation of the new trailer, the old one will be deemed excess and disposed of accordingly. I along with the club officers, board of directors and trustees believe that the new clubhouse will lend itself to exciting new activites for the club, for example, operating, kit building projects, roundtable meetings, discussion groups, ARES/RACES, technical seminars, to name a few.
We'll keep all members posted regarding the progress of the installation of the new clubsite and welcome all members to visit the site. We'll also see if we can get some photos of the new trailer on the club website.
Finally, the officers, directors and trustees would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving holiday.
73,
Tom, KE2ES
Donation confirmation letter from the Wiiliamstown Fire Company to the Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club
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