VHF antenna suggestions needeed...

[trasbeck]

What are you using for a VHF antenna and where do you mount it? I am leaning toward a 36" whip on the console grabrail on my 190. Boat is used near shore on Lake Ontario. I have been using a handheld but it just doesn't have the range I would like. Pictures of your mounts would be helpful.....

 

[OspreyVic]

My first suggestion would be to purchase a "Digital" antenna. They cost a little more than other manufacturers, but I feel they are worth it. Their web site is http://www.digitalantenna.com/index.html and they can be purchased at many locations, including internet sites. I have two 4 ft digitals, one for vhf and another for AM/FM mounted on my radar arch. I wanted the 8 ft models, but they would not fit into my garage. The higher the antenna, the greater the range you will get.



Next, I would pick a heavy-duty marine antenna mount, like what you will find at http://www.shakespeare-marine.com/ . I do not like to pay for the same thing more than once, so if I can purchase something that will last longer with the first purchase I am money ahead. For a rail mount, I would look at Shakespear model 4188-SL.

 

[Genelie]

I use a shakespear, it used to be mounted by using a clamp type mount. Then I got the t-top, and she is permantely mounted on the t-top with a swivel lock to fold down for transporting.
What ever you use it will be a whole lot better than a hand held.

 

[Cincinnati]

First read this: https://www.performanceoutdoors.net/threads/icom-402s-install-on-190-bay-cc.171/ ...

Also look at Osprey's 3' antenna. I've heard great things about the Digital moels. That one should also work with the above referenced setup per that thread.

 

[fattiresc]

I have the Shakespeare XT Galaxy antenna, http://www.shakespeare-marine.com/antennas/galaxy/5400-xt.htm. I heard great things about Digital as well, but Shakespeare is made in my hometown so that made my decision. I have been very impressed.

~J

 

[AstroDiver]

I have the Shakespeare Galaxy 5225 antenna mounted on one of their ratcheting rail mounts. It is attached to rail that goes around the windshield on the right side. I can drop it to the deck for trailering. I also slide a large rigid dive flag down over the tip when we are diving. This way it sticks up real high where anyone can see it.

 

[k9reno]

What so they can TARGET you

 

[Thfireman]

OK, let me know if I got a good or bad antenna set up. I got a 8' Shakespeare 5101 with the rail ratchet base. I mounted it forward of the right consol on the grab rail. It was on close out at Boaters World. I paid $59.00, is it worth the money?

 

[k9reno]

I believe that is the same antenna I use. except that mine is mounted on the rail around my t top. It had worked very well for me, and the additional height doesnt hurt either.

 

[Thfireman]

My rail mount broke again. Didnt fit the large rail properly so O got the hard mount type and put it on the gunwale between the rail end and the window frame. It is the ratchet type mount. Now if I could find someone close by to test the radio. I never found anyone at the lake to call and test. If anyone is near pineville NC and would be willing to attempt to make contact, then let me know and we can work out a time and date to test. I know the diastance will be limited by buildings and hills but if close enought it mike work.

 

[fridaysoff]

Fireman,
You should have a sea tow company around lake norman. give them a call on channel 16. They should answer and take you to a working channel. You can ask them for a radio check. good luck.
John D.

 

[Thfireman]

Thanks John. I will try that next time I am out there. Hopefully I will free up some time first part of March. Thanks again.
Roger H

 

[fattiresc]

Shakespeare makes rail mounts for larger than 1" rails (http://www.shakespeare-marine.com/mountshow.asp?findmount=4188-SL). I had to go to that for my Triumph and it has been great. I wish I lived closer to help you out with your radio check. If you know anyone with an analog scanner (like listening to police or fireman ;-) ) you can tune it in to check if it is receiving your VHF transmission. You can find channel frequencies here [ame]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_VHF_radio[/ame]. hope this helps.