Radio antenna topper

[Xnavfltdoc]

What is the teardrop shaped thing on the top end of an antenna called?

[richard]

Antenna Tip

NSN 5820-00-437-2353

[muttguru]

Antenna Tip
NSN 5820-00-437-2353

Hi Richard, There's also a smaller version of the ball-tip which is used on the MS-118A (top section of the three-part antenna for the AB-15 base). It has the NSN 5985-00-930-7223.
Ken

[Xnavfltdoc]

Thanks guys I really appreciate your help

[richard]

Antenna Tip
NSN 5820-00-437-2353

Hi Richard, There's also a smaller version of the ball-tip which is used on the MS-118A (top section of the three-part antenna for the AB-15 base). It has the NSN 5985-00-930-7223.
Ken

Ken,

You are rigth. But I am wondering that my smaller antenna tip is not fitting to the MS-118A element. I would say "it hangs around". Or are there differences in the three MS-118 elements? I got my MS-118 antenna for my R-442 from a guy in The Netherlands. I think the German army was using the MS-118 for their SEM radios, too. (but I am not sure)

[Fil Bonica]

Here is a bit of minutia.
In the old days it was known as a static ball.

Fil Bonica

[muttguru]

I am wondering that my smaller antenna tip is not fitting to the MS-118A element. I would say "it hangs around". Or are there differences in the three MS-118 elements? I got my MS-118 antenna for my R-442 from a guy in The Netherlands. I think the German army was using the MS-118 for their SEM radios, too. (but I am not sure)

Hi Richard.
The AB-15 antenna is made up from top section MS-118A, middle section MS-117A and lower section MS-116A. Each section tapers and the MS-118A is very thin at the top end. They broke easily. The Mil advised that if any of the three sections broke, then the TOP section of the antenna (the AT-1095) from the RT-246 or 524 can be used to replace the whole 3-piece antenna.
If the small ball-tip is loose, you may need to apply some tape to the antenna tip, then secure the ball by wrapping the tape around the ball and antenna, to stop the ball flying off.
Both sizes of ball are not a good design. A better design would be something like a "Kinder-Egg"....the top "pops" off, then tape could be applied to the antenna tip INSIDE the ball....or even better, if the antenna tip was threaded, a nut and washer could be secured INSIDE the ball. Unfortunately, the Mil never asked me
ken

[richard]

Great answer Ken. Thanks a lot.