How to Build an Antenna Truss

Locate your antenna's installation location in the most logical location for maximum signal strength. In most cases, this means in open ground as far away from structures as possible. Adjacent structures bounce the signal around, creating a destructive situation known as multipath.

Dig a hole in the ground 18 inches deep using the hole shovel. Remove excess soil by hand from the hole.

Cut the tow cable into three equal sections using the metal shears. Locate three equidistant positions surrounding the hole for the ground screw anchors. The three positions create a triangular pattern. Each must be on level solid ground to make a firm hold.

Wrap one of the cables around the pipe, three-quarters of the way up from the top. Attach the loose end to the remaining cable length by placing two bulldog clamps 2 inches apart. Secure the clamps with the adjustable wrench until the slack end of the cable cannot pull free. Wrap and clamp the second and third sections of cable, placing each just below the previous wrapping of cable.

Loop the other end of each cable around the individual ground screw anchors. Secure these with the bulldog clamps, two per lead.

Screw the pipe cap to the cable end of the pipe. This reduces wind load on the truss after it is installed, reducing the chance of it tilting over time. Place the end of the pipe furthest from the attached tow cables into the hole.

Have an assistant hold the pipe upright while you screw the ground clamps firmly into the soil. Check the plumb of the pipe periodically using a level during this process. Tighten until each cable is equally taut.

Pour enough quick-mix concrete into the hole surrounding the pipe until it is level with the surrounding soil. Follow the package directions to mix the concrete.

Place bricks or stones around the base to support the truss as the concrete dries.