On 23/24 July the Motorola repeater was damaged in a storm. It is suspected that the repeater was damaged by static from lightning.
![](http://wcrwg.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_20190831_104725.jpg)
On 26 July Jan ZS1VDV and Paul ZS1V investigated and found the repeater damaged. The repeater and duplexer was removed. The antenna SWR (1:1.03) was checked.
In the following weeks a new install was planned:
- a backup repeater serviced by Verstay (ZS1VDV, ZS1V)
- correct length coax acquired (ZS1VDV, ZS1YT)
- duplexer tuned (ZS1VDV, ZS1V)
- circulator tuned (ZS1VDV)
- power supply connector replaced (ZS1V)
The morning of 31 August started at 06:00 with the last few tests of the configuration. Backed all equipment and tools. Left for site around 07:30
Repacked all into 4×4 vehicle at ZS1DDK.
![](http://wcrwg.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_20190831_094629-1024x768.jpg)
On site around 10:00
![](http://wcrwg.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_20190831_095326-1024x292.jpg)
![](http://wcrwg.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_20190831_095204.jpg)
![](http://wcrwg.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_20190831_103637.jpg)
Installed duplexer (Decibel Products 6 can). It was tuned to -2.04 dB insertion loss on RX, -2.5 dB insertion loss on TX, and -115 dB isolation between RX and TX). Next was the installation of the rack mount power supply (13.82 V) and Vertex VXR 9000 (sensitivity set to 0.25 uV) repeater.
![](http://wcrwg.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_20190831_103632-1024x768.jpg)
SWR was rechecked between repeater and circulator, circulator and duplexer as well as after duplexer, all was found to be perfect flat (1:1.05). The power output after the duplexer is 14W.
![](http://wcrwg.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_20190831_104855.jpg)
A few test contacts was made to confirm all working.
Packed all equipment and boxes and returned home at around 11:30
A quick lunch sponsored by ZS1DDK was enjoyed at Peddlers on the Bend.