Radar Reflectors

The other option that I thought of is to use two of the tubular ones, and mount them inside, at the aft wall, corners of the cabin. Using two, to increase the return image, since they are less effective than the tri-lens units. That would be less expensive, mounted inside, so less to worry about as to windage, and wear when the cover is on.

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
El and Bill":2s8vrpe7 said:
Plan B made a reflector out of cardboard, covered with aluminum foil, a few years ago -- looked like the West Marine "corner cube" twin circle -- except his was twin semi-circles. He mounted it flush atop his radar dome and we tested it with our radar -- BOOM -- a marvelous reflection. For do-it-yourselfers or for those who enjoy experimenting, it might make an interesting afternoon and give a CD an inexpensive, easily mounted, adequate reflector.
Click to expand...

Two issues:
1. The device has to be accurately constructed to be effective in reflecting signals back to their source; a few degrees off in the construction of the 3d corners will render it ineffective.
2. To be most effective, Davis reflectors should be mounted in the "catch rain" position with one of the openings pointing upward. Tests have shown the highest return signals in all directions at different angles of heel using this configuration.
 
Any one have any thoughts as to whether the WM tubular reflector can be used, or would be functional if it was laying down in a horizontal position?

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
Hi,
I bought the Davis Radar Reflector from Defender Marine along with with a U-bolt type mount that does not come with the stainless steel u-bolts. I just u-bolted to my roof rail. I guess it could be higher. Fiberglass does not provide much of a radar target. I hought it would be better to be safe than sorry. It's the high speed ferries that can ruin your day. If you look under photos, then, cruises and events, look for the the Maine Cruise 2010 picture #10 shows what I did right or wrong. Defenders web site http://www.defender.com/

D.D.
 
What about mounting a Tri-Lens on top of the radar dome? Is there enough clearance inside so that the swing arm won't hit the mounting bolts?
 
Jay

That would seem like the most logical place, I agree. However, I have a storage cover that is made to fit over the radar dome, and I know it will support the weight. That is why I am looking at/for alternative mounting sites--ie under the radar, and up close to the post, to keep it within the area where the boat storage cover would not be affected and it would not have to support the extra weight.

Good idea for most applications I would think.

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
Hi,
Thanks Joe for posting the picture. :) The model shown in the picture of Will-C is a standard Davis Echomaster. It comes apart and stores flat. I remove it for trailering by pulling one cotter pin. Normally I leave it assembled so I can just slide down on the mount. The standard Echomaster radar reflector is Defender part # 803137 cost 47.99 The mount part # 803141 cost 25.99. You will need to pick up two 1 1/2 inch stainless steel u bolts with washers and nylon lock nuts for the mount. For me this seemed like a simple solution. On Defender's home page use the search box and type in radar reflectors, they have a bunch. No I have no affiliation with Defender, but they are a no nonsense supplier with decent prices.
D.D.
 
OK, so if the MOBRI (Tube type) reflector works best in a vertical mounting, why would it not work in a horizontal mount as well?

Jeff said:
"I have one of the thin tubular Mobri types lying around and I've been meaning to tie it to one of our racing buoys (all plastic) at the yacht club and then motor around it with the C-Dory radar and see how it looks. It was rated poorly."
Click to expand...

Jeff, If you get a chance to do this, any chance you can try it in both vertical and horizontal applications? :twisted:

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
hardee":vgldcyot said:
OK, so if the MOBRI (Tube type) reflector works best in a vertical mounting, why would it not work in a horizontal mount as well?
Click to expand...

It is designed to reflect signals from all directions around its long axis, but not signals originating along its axis. It is assumed that when it is hanging your angle of heel will be fairly small. A unit mounted horizontally will sometimes experience signals close to its long axis which it is not designed to reflect.
 
Thank you.That is plain and simple and logical, just needed it pointed out. :oops: So the horozontal application is out. Back to the drawing board. :roll:

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
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