VHF Antenna location/mounting

Bluecrab · Posted: Sat Mar 11, 2006 10:07 am Post subject: VHF Antenna location/mounting

I'm looking for some input on mounting options for an 8 ft VHF antenna. I have a 3 ft, 3 dB whip right now, but transmission just isn't reliable enough.

Have looked at the other threads and although there's lot on radio types and antenna pros/cons, I didn't see much on pros/cons for mounting locations. Options seem to be:

1. mounting on the side of the cabin, forward - do any of you with this location find that it hampers your movement forward to the bow? Does it smack the cabin roof in chop and require a stand-off?

2. Mounting on the top rail - in this location, is the effect of roll magnified? Any noticeable impact on performance? Or is this offset by the greater height over mounting on the cabin side?

Any other pros or cons? It may be that there's little difference between these two options, but figured I'd ask before I drill! Any feedback will be appreciated.

MOOSE · Posted: Sat Mar 11, 2006 10:34 am Post subject:

From what I understand from my radio-savvy friends, height is of real advantage in mounting these things. Ours is mounted on the top rail rather than at the side of the cabin. For trailering we simply lay it down aft but a bit higher than the rail and then strap it under a bit of bowed tension and it rides just fine.
Al

rogerbum · Posted: Sat Mar 11, 2006 11:02 am Post subject:

I agree with Al - the more height the better. My antenna was mounted where the guy at the factor told me was best (on the starboard side, in front of and just below the starboard window). In retrospect, I wish I had mounted it up top. The earth's curvature is about 8"/mile so every foot of increase gets you about 1.5 miles increase in line of sight.

DaveS

dogon dory · Last edited by dogon dory on Mon Mar 03, 2008 9:35 pm; edited 1 time in total

Sorry, Folks - Post Deleted By Author

Bluecrab · Posted: Sat Mar 11, 2006 12:05 pm Post subject:

Thanks for all of the quick responses, folks!! Top seems unanimous, which was kind of what I thought. Was thinking about one of those 4 ft digital antennas, but opted for the greater length. The little 3 ft job I have now just doesn't cut it.

I'm going to take advantage of this great weather and get a few things done on Lizzie Ann - 77 degrees yesterday - unbelievable.

Thanks again for the feedback.