Telescoping boom not what you think.

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I am designing my skid. TB 301g inside a full box tubing frame. I am thinking the upright tubes would be great telescoping light towers. Every time I use box tubing inside box tubing I have to mill a slot down the side of the inner piece. Does anybody have a better recommendation of what to use? Maybe DOM tubing instead if box? Just looking for ideas. This doesn't have to have any mechanical strength only enought to hold a light up in the air. I am thinking 3 pieces 5' long that can be pinn d.
Reply:Instead of cutting down the inner ridge I cut a groove in the outside of the inside tube to clear the ridge inside of the outer tube.do da! but I was using 1/4" wall square tubing.Last edited by acourtjester; 09-22-2013 at 06:59 PM.
Reply:That is what I do. I just didn't explain it very well.
Reply:Just buy receiver tube instead, the seam has been broached off.
Reply:I have never heard of receiver tube. Can I get that in 20' sticks?
Reply:Here is a link to McMaster. They sell "seamless" tubing, but it can get pretty pricey, pretty quick. I bought a 6' piece to build a feeder this year and it was $42 after shipping. Here is a link: http://www.mcmaster.com/#steel-frami...tubing/=omj7zl. I have also seen where guys have built their own broach and used a BFH, a winch, or a press to broach the outer tubing. Here are some pics of the homemade broach:http://bbs.homeshopmachinist.net/thr...ach-%28pics%29Brian
Reply:If you don't need a real tight fit, go with the next thinner wall outside tube.  I've found that 2" square with fit inside a 2-1/2" by 3/16" wall outer without any rework.My name's not Jim....
Reply:Yes, you need to order receiver tubing. 2.5" OD for however many posts you want to use on the skid. Then you'd use 2" tubing inside those to make your light towers and what not.