



If you plan DXpedition to a remote place, below few points
you may take in consideration:
1. Radio Equipment
a)We had 3 radios (2X Icom IC-756PROIII and Yaesu
FT857D) Icom's performed flawlessly! (volcanic ash and
~100% humidity) Thank you, Icom for great product and
generous help!
b) Ameritron ALS-600S died fast. Make connectors on the
circuit board of PA and take a spare set of MRF-150
transistors.
c) Spiderbeam antenna. Took long time to assemble on the
island (even after home preparation) , but worked great. If
buying new, assemble and test it first at home!
d) Tower (mast) we used aluminium military mast 8
sections. It held up perfectly with very strong winds.
e) Generator: Honda EU2000i worked as a clock. We had
spare spark plug, extra oil, not used. Inline AC filter helps.
If vessel is close by, ask captain to turn off radar, to check if
any interference on some bands.
2. Camping Equipment.
a) Use commercial type tent, Yuri UA9OBA held our
"Costco consumer 6 persons tent" with his body weight
during strong winds.
b) Location of operating position is very important, ask
people familiar with local weather about safest potential
spot.
c) Coleman stove was broken on the 2nd day. We had extra
gas heater and made a new stove from gas heater. Zip-tye
held safety valve so propane tank can be in horizontal
position.
d) We knew about potential of eruption and had safety
equipment: special air-tight glasses and masks. One item
was missing: hard hats. So, take some along if going to
active volcano area.
3. Other.
a) Our planed vessel was broken down upon our arrival and
in different port. No charter aircraft will fly because of ash
warnings. Thanks to Alyssa from Mac Enterprises for
finding alternative transportation! Be prepared for change of
plans at the last minute.
b) Take a professional along who will be responsible for
documenting of your expedition (video/photo/audio) We had
a brave lady, Anne Hillman, News Director from KIAL,
Unalaska, AK who went along with us and did an
exceptional work!
c) Have a financial b/up, planned budget is just an estimate.
Things cost way more in remote places and choice is very
limited.
And in conclusion:
As Our Captain of p/v Lady Gudney, Kristjan LaxFoss said:
"...Do not give up!"
Chuginadak Island DXpedition IOTA NA-234
Islands of Four Mountains Group
KL7DX July 21st, 2008-July 27th 2008
Chuginadak Island DX-Pedition Tel (800)977-0448
1941 Lake Whatcom Blvd #155 Fax (206)374-2186
Bellingham, WA 98229 USA email: N3QQ at NA-234.com
NEW ONE NA-234
GRID AO52
Location:
52.33N - 53.17N
169.5W - 171.5W