The Problem
Two working Channel Master rotors found in a parts cleanup created a new problem: 100+ feet of rotor wire needed, only 75 on hand. Standard rotor wire comes in 500-foot rolls — overkill for a one-off job.
CAT5 cable, however, was available in bulk. Cheap rotor wire is 22-gauge. CAT5 is 24-gauge — slightly thinner, but it has eight conductors in four twisted pairs.
The Solution
Pair wires together for each of the four rotor connections. Two 24-gauge wires in parallel give approximately 21-gauge effective cross-section — adequate for Channel Master rotor current draw at 100+ feet.
Cut off the unused pairs cleanly at both ends to prevent accidental shorts. The rotor bolts shown in the photos are soaking in vinegar for rust removal — a useful trick for old hardware.
