So, we have a small repeater site on private land, pole goes about 25' above ground. I'm a bit leery of its lifespan, it was old looking when we acquired the site, and that was 10 years ago. Its got some severe checking the whole way up, the longest being about 6' and the deepest being 5.5" deep.
Did a drill test to see what it was like inside. In ground level it drilled solid, and using a 18" bit (non-auger) required multiple plunges. Having drilled many a log (log homes are common) it felt solid. About 3' above ground was different though, I was able to drill in 18" in a single plunge. Not hollow inside, but definitely soft. I'm thinking this thing is done and the owner should replace it but I have no idea at what point these things are considered unsafe. I'd rather it be a nice chunk of steel, but the costs of putting up a tower are a tad exorbitant given what it serves. Thoughts?
