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Marine VHF Antenna

  • 30-09-2013 10:21am
    #1
    humaxf1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 865 ✭✭✭


    Hi,

    My VHF antenna on the boat seems to have developed a fault. Radio check on 1W is fine, 25W not so great. Hooked up a temporary antenna and radio check was fine on 25W.

    Looks like I'm in the market for a replacement... Question is, could I get away with a:

    3/8" bulkhead fitting http://goo.gl/stR1qu,
    whip adapter http://goo.gl/4NkVtC

    reuse the whip from the present antenna cut to 1/4 wave length and seal everything up with self-almalgamating tape or liquid electrical tape?

    Marine antennas seem to be way over-priced for what they are and inflated specs. Some are 5/8 to give a lower take off angle which is fair enough I suppose.

    Any thoughts? Thanks.


Comments

  • #2
    watty
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 32,417 ✭✭✭✭watty


    5/8ths usually gives more range but has a built in matching coil / transformer at base so can't be cut to 1/4.

    Marine environment is severe. Better materials an sealing is required. If you compare with decent brand Amateur 145MHz 5/8th and mounting kit/mag mount you'll not see much difference in price.

    Also the Marine install may be fibreglass body, all non-marine mobile whips need the car / truck metalwork to match and operate properly. Check you order the appropriate type of aerial.


  • #3
    martinedwards
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,045 ✭✭✭martinedwards


    marine radio is your LIFE!!!!

    I'm perfectly happy lashing up DIY antennae for home use for hobby radio, but as my only way of calling for help when my boat is taking on water in 15 foot swells?

    I'd buy a new antenna.......


  • #4
    Xantia
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 682 ✭✭✭Xantia


    humaxf1 wrote: »
    Hi,

    My VHF antenna on the boat seems to have developed a fault. Radio check on 1W is fine, 25W not so great. Hooked up a temporary antenna and radio check was fine on 25W.

    Looks like I'm in the market for a replacement... Question is, could I get away with a:

    3/8" bulkhead fitting http://goo.gl/stR1qu,
    whip adapter http://goo.gl/4NkVtC

    reuse the whip from the present antenna cut to 1/4 wave length and seal everything up with self-almalgamating tape or liquid electrical tape?

    Marine antennas seem to be way over-priced for what they are and inflated specs. Some are 5/8 to give a lower take off angle which is fair enough I suppose.

    Any thoughts? Thanks.

    Have a chat with the guys over on the maratime forum HERE
    as they would be more familiar with local suppliers etc.


  • #5
    Xantia
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 682 ✭✭✭Xantia


    Or you could get an antenna of Long Communications, I have purchased stuff from him in the past and see him at rallys etc.
    Here is the link


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