Re: [ATM] building a collapsible DOB (paint poles)

[Dave Smith <smithersscope@yahoo.com>]

Howdy,
I used the collapsible paint poles on version 1.0 of
my 16 inch tridob. They were relatively inexpensive as
aluminum poles are concerned. I experienced
significant frustration after many nights out under
the stars. Let me explain. The conical plastic clamps
on my painters poles began to allow the tube to slip
in the socket (joint). So I began tightening them more
and more (by hand). Eventually the plastic piece on
the lower end cracked and the joint failed completely
on two of my poles. I have since chiseled off the
plastic unions and JB welded the two pieces together.
In dropping the plastic unions and extra 1.5 feet of
aluminum tube per pole I reduced my  upper OTA weight
by about 1.5 pounds. Whoohoo! And the JB weld has held
up really well. We'll see if that continues to be the
case.

So, caveat emptor (buyer beware); not all painters
poles are created equal. They may work splendidly in
the beginning, but fail miserably later with use.

FWIW,
Dave
--- Ross Sackett <rsackett00@yahoo.com> wrote:

> 
> --- RP <rp@suttonsonline.us> wrote:
> 
> I was originally
> > hopeful that I 
> > could find  collapsible poles that I could sub for
> > the straight poles.
> 
> Oh.  Try the extension poles used for paint
> rollers--they are pretty economical and come in
> several collapsible lengths.  Lowes and Depot have
> them, but you might find a cheaper source online.
> 
> Ross



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