Antenna Mount

mikeporterinmd · Posted: Mon Oct 23, 2006 7:18 pm Post subject: Antenna Mount

The current antenna we have is a four foot whip mounted on a non-flexing,
non-removable round base. It is also mounted on the pilothouse roof such that the antenna points out to starboard at an odd angle.

Any reason a regular old rachet type SS mount can't be used with
an 8' whip right on the pilot house roof? Or should I re-enforce
somehow?

That way, the antenna will work as designed since I can adjust it to point
straight up, and it can be dropped when necessary. Of course, if I switch
to the 8' whip, I *will* have to remember to drop it when towing or
I'm going to cause trouble with the power lines down the street!

Thanks,

Mike

Falco · Posted: Mon Oct 23, 2006 7:48 pm Post subject:

I have an antennea mount of the style you describe (only nylon - not SS) on my 22. See http://lookleap.com/fisheriessupply.com/a7 It is mounted just aft of the port nav light on the side of the boat. It works great - as you described - up for use and down for transport. Have never had any problems with it. Get a good quality one and the lever model - not the screw to tighten model.

Sneaks · Posted: Mon Oct 23, 2006 8:06 pm Post subject:

Mine is similar to Falco's except it's SS. I did cut a square piece of 1/4" "cutting board" starboard-like material for a backing plate but I could have likely gotten away with 1" washers.

416rigby · Posted: Mon Oct 23, 2006 8:12 pm Post subject:

I just upgraded to a SS rail mount for our 8' Galaxy antenna and it works great. Got it from WM. The old one was mounted on the roof near the visor and it was probably the original one...so I'm sure what you are asking would work just as well. I went with the rail mount because eventually I want a radar arch and will just move it there later. That way I don't have to fill in any more extra holes in the roof.

Rick

thataway · Posted: Mon Oct 23, 2006 8:52 pm Post subject:

The rachet mounts are fine for 8 foot fiberglass antennas. I do suggest the SS mounts. Either a block or large fender washers need to spread the load out under the cabin roof.

mikeporterinmd · Posted: Mon Oct 23, 2006 9:23 pm Post subject:

Thanks for all the replies! Get to make a big order tommorow - between
the antenna and the shower power related equipment!

Mike

oldgrowth · Posted: Mon Oct 23, 2006 9:56 pm Post subject:

Mike – I have a mount similar to Falco’s. I ued large SS washers as backing and have not had any problems. There is a nut in the middle of the handle for adjusting the tension on the mount. I adjusted mine so that if I forget to lower the antenna and hit something with it when towing, the antenna base will let the antenna down before it breaks. I am not sure you would have this feature on a SS model.