Pneumatic Antenna Launcher Parts

Pneumatic Antenna Launchers use compressed air to propel tennis balls towing fishing line over trees to support amateur radio antennas for backyard, field and emergency use. The fishing line is used to stage a heavier line that typically supports a wire antenna.

Parts will be added to this collection from time to time.

The Ball Holding Tool Ring is used to facilitate making Launch Balls. A slit is cut in the ball with a utility knife while the ball is held in this tool. The tool prevents the ball from rolling and helps protect the fingers from cuts. A loop of fishing wire is installed in the Launch Ball to attach the launch line to.

The Sand Funnel is used to facilitate making Launch Balls. The flattened outlet of the Sand Funnel is used to guide sand into the slit for additional weight which improves line towing.

The Sand Scoop is designed to hold approximately one ounce of dry sand for adding weight to the Launch Ball. We generally add about 2 ounces of sand and then seal the slit with a hot melt glue gun. More detailed instructions are on our website mentioned below.

The RamRod End aids in pushing the Launch Ball down the barrel during Launch Preparation. A length of ½" schedule 40 PVC pipe or conduit is used for a handle. The RamRod End friction fits to the PVC pipe handle and helps center the handle while pushing the ball down the barrel.

The Trigger Strut provides stability for the trigger assembly on the Pneumatic Antenna Launcher. Two models are provided, the original flexure type and the newer print in place hinge type. The flexures work well but can only withstand a limited number of bend cycles before wearing out. The hinges can handle more bend cycles but have a little more play. Either type works, and in normal use the strut is stationary so it should not wear out. The flexures or hinges allow the strut ends to conform to the mounting surface angles.

These Strut models are provided as replacement parts in case one becomes damaged and requires replacement or it may be useful for DIY built launchers or upgrading older launchers that lacked this improvement. These Pneumatic Antenna Launchers have been in development and production since 2002.

These parts can be printed from PLA or PETG with 0.4 nozzle, 0.2 layer height and default settings. PETG is better for warm environments as PLA gets soft around 50C. Filament color can be changed at the base of the text layers to enhance the visibility of the text on the struts if desired. Other plastics such as ABS or ASA could also be used but require an enclosed printer and elevated temperatures to avoid warping. We have not found fiber filled materials to be needed for these parts but they could increase strength and durability.

More info on these pneumatic antenna launchers is available at AntennaLaunchers dot com including DIY plans and instructions on how to make and use the launchers and the launch balls.

73 de AlanB, W6AKB