FWIW - I used to weld aluminum with a gas torch (Oxy-Acetylene) a few years ago. And you are correct, it really took a bit to learn the "touch" needed to be able to do this. The rod melted at about 100 degrees lower than the work. (I repaired aluminum air conditioning condensers for cars...)
Of course this process wont work with PL-259s, but I thought I'd add my 1.5¢ worth to the discussion... <wink> Mark - N9WYS -----Original Message----- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com On Behalf Of DCFluX The only real way to bond aluminum is with a TIG welder. And when you get the stuff hot enough to where it starts making a good bead it melts on you. So that would mean that only crimp on style connectors can be used with this type of coax. That would be fine for BNC and N, But most of the PL-259s wouldn't work. BTW leaving the braid on a PL-259 unsoldered is a good way to blow up the finals in your radio, so check your jumpers when you get a chance. It should be noted also that QST will usually post some kind of April fools joke in the April issue, so keep an eye out.
