Need some guidance for a vhf antenna. To be mounted on a mast on a hard top, probably need a 4 footer or whip to maintain a reasonable clearance. Suggestions?
VHF Antenna
- Thread starter b_arrington
- Start date
be_prepared
Active Member
- Oct 12, 2015
- 377
- Boat Info
- 2002 Sea Ray Sundancer 340DA
- Engines
- Twin Mercruiser Horizon 8.1 inboards
If you're able to mount the antenna on a ratchet mount, you can have an 8 foot antenna, that can be tilted down if you need to go under a low bridge or something. VHF range is largely dependent on the height of the antennas on both ends, along with the gain of the antenna.
Interesting read: https://www.sportfishingmag.com/choosing-and-using-marine-vhf-antenna/
Interesting read: https://www.sportfishingmag.com/choosing-and-using-marine-vhf-antenna/
Boat Guy
Well-Known Member
- May 15, 2013
- 2,289
- Boat Info
- 400 DA
- Engines
- CAT 3116s
Good point...Also, if the ratchet mount is reachable from the helm so you don't have to leave. even better... When I single-hand, it's much easier....
Thanks for the link.
I'm planning on using the spreader on the mast to mount the antenna. It has a screw-on mount, so a ratchet mount looks out, although they are useful. The mast specs also limit the antenna height to 4 feet or less so it looks like I'm limited to a 6 db or more likely a 3 db antenna.
I'm planning on using the spreader on the mast to mount the antenna. It has a screw-on mount, so a ratchet mount looks out, although they are useful. The mast specs also limit the antenna height to 4 feet or less so it looks like I'm limited to a 6 db or more likely a 3 db antenna.
sbw1
Well-Known Member
- Oct 10, 2006
- 8,185
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- This is listed in my signature
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- This is listed in my signature
JVM225
Well-Known Member
Good advice if you will be going under any low bridges.
I could reach the ratchet mount from the helm on my old boat, but for this one I have to leave the helm to lower it.
Boat Guy
Well-Known Member
- May 15, 2013
- 2,289
- Boat Info
- 400 DA
- Engines
- CAT 3116s
There is no way I'd mount an antenna without a ratchet mount...You don't understand the convenience until you miss it... You should be able to mount one and reach it on the 410 just like my 400...
JVM225
Well-Known Member
I probably could but it would still involve having to remove side curtains (a PIA) or something so I’ve left it alone. This is my third season with this boat and I’ve only had to lower it a couple of times so it’s not the end of the world. At least it’s on a ratchet mount so I just need a quick minute away from the helm.
