Opinions needed... anybody have one ?

rbcool · Post by **rbcool** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 3:24 pm

I'm going crazy not having radar. I'm used to fishing until 12/31 and going out in even the thickest fog. I also don't mind cruising in the dark. But neither of these I am willing to do without radar.
My dilemma is : Should I totally change the look of the boat and put up a radar arch? Not to mention putting a lot of holes in the sides of the bridge deck. Any alternatives? Thoughts?? Would you do it?

k9th · Post by **k9th** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 4:09 pm

I have installed a small stainless steel mast, approximately 36" long, that runs from the area next to the console straight through the canvas top and the radar antenna is mounted right there. My avatar does not show it since it was taken before I installed it. I custom designed the mast and mounting platform and had them made at a cost of $150.00

My canvas was destroyed last year and when the new one was made, it was made with a hole to accommodate the size of the mast and the canvas maker provided a velcro cover if I ever take it down.

On the bottom I use a swivel mount with square bolted base plate from a rod holder so that I get the exact angle I want on the antenna. My cable comes right through the mast and the mast sits within six inches of the radar display.

Pretty neat and no holes in the fiberglass. This is not my idea as I saw a Chris Craft in our marina that did this and I copied him.

Just an alternative that works for me.

Peter · Post by **Peter** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 4:27 pm

k9...would really like a set of pic's if possible...I have radar collecting dust in my basement and have been watching ebay for almost 2 years for a cheap used arch close to me but no luck.150$ sounds way better than $1500...may break down and mount on the front of the fly bridge....Thanks

rossjo · Post by **rossjo** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 4:33 pm

As I recall, you're supposed to mount the radar so that the plane of the radar is 3' above your head for safety, as wll as a clear 360 circle for clear reception.

Peter · Post by **Peter** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 4:56 pm

agreed.would like to avoid radiating the family jewels if possible

rossjo · Post by **rossjo** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 5:20 pm

At this point in life, I'm more worried about protecting my few functioning brains cells than my family jewels.

Funny how your point of view changes as you get older.

rbcool · Post by **rbcool** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 5:42 pm

K9, would also like to see pics if possible. Does it laek????

I was a real dummy when I bought the 740s in July... They were offering a package deal to include the radar for anoter $700.00, But since there was no arch I didn't do it.

Thyanks for the input guys.... Ron

MattSC · Post by **MattSC** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 7:45 pm

I had an arch custom made back in 02 by Marine Retrofit, he's located near the CT River, Old Saybrook area. He was great to work with, took the boats lines into consideration when he designed it. He did an excellent job and would definitely recommend him. The radar unit was definitely one of the best upgrades I did.

k9th · Post by **k9th** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 8:56 pm

rbcool wrote:K9, would also like to see pics if possible. Does it laek????

I was a real dummy when I bought the 740s in July... They were offering a package deal to include the radar for anoter $700.00, But since there was no arch I didn't do it.

Thyanks for the input guys.... Ron

No it doesn't leak at all. I will try to get some pics but will have to hurry as they are pulling it this week and winterizing and shrink wrapping it. If not, I can get it in the spring. They will be taking it off for shrink wrap.

prowlersfish · Post by **prowlersfish** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 9:35 pm

Seen a few pole mounts on the tri cabins . they work ok with 2.2kw or less domes . a 4kw would need a pretty study rig . for a open array you would need a arch or you could put a hard top on the boat.

What size/type were you planing on installing ? I just when from a dome to a open array this weekend . (same display just up graded it to open) .

rbcool · Post by **rbcool** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 9:38 pm

The 4k, but I'm used to having open. I hope there isn't much difference.

prowlersfish · Post by **prowlersfish** » Tue Oct 12, 2010 10:10 pm

I found a big improvement going to the open Both 4KW . The dome was ok but was never 100% happy with it . However I did have a 2.2 furuno dome (1712) and it was as good as or better then anyone else's 4kw. Next radar I will be going back to Furuno . A friend with a Ray E120 super HD said the same thing .

The garmins seem to be ok THe folks I know that have them are happy with them ( all switched from raymarine)

rbcool · Post by **rbcool** » Wed Oct 13, 2010 7:12 am

I know what you mean. My last open was furono 36 mile w/ a seperate display and I loved it. But I now have a Garmin. Have always had Garmin and it's what i recommend and install on customers boats.

aaronbocknek · Post by **aaronbocknek** » Wed Oct 13, 2010 7:56 am

here is a link to a 1981 tri cabin in alabama with a radar arch added. it also has diesels! (and yes, for us tri cabin purists, the 'layout' diagram is reversed. i tried to tell them, but broker will not listen to me

) and she has dropped in price 10K over the last few weeks. if i had the shekels for a custom aluminum arch, i'd follow the '45' at the base of the helm side windows, arching back. i wish i had CAD to show you what i mean.
anyway, it gives you an idea of the look with the addition.
aaron

http://www.boattrader.com/listing/1981- ... n-97016949

rbcool · Post by **rbcool** » Wed Oct 13, 2010 8:15 am

WOW !!! Thanks Aaron. You've got my head whizzing this am (or is it the double latte's) That doesn't look too bad at all!
You should snatch that boat up right now, bet you could get an even better price since the guy is looking at having to haul soon.
Ron