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QUESTION:
For those who have radar, where is the best place to mount it on a Flicka. Two options, I see: on the mast obviously or on a pole at the stern. For those that have radar, (mast or stern mounted) can you give me pros and cons, and any installation suggestions or problems you've had with your setup.
Thanks.
Bill
REPLY:
I mounted mine on the mast a little bit above the spreaders, so it doesn't interfere when we pull the mast. It will be an issue, though, if I decide to get a small staysail for windy days, since it would get in the way of the headboard. I intend to discuss this with the sailmaker. Also, when I asked him about chafe on the jib, he said the best thing to do is sand down the sharp edges on the radome. Catching the jib in light air isn't that big a deal.
I ran the cable out the starboard side of the mast, and through the arch on the port side, and can remove the cable when I pull the mast (I didn't want to cut the cable). It runs under the headliner, out the zipper and over to the screen which is mounted on swivel arms on the front bulkhead of the head compartment.
I added a separate breaker, and ran the power behind the bridge deck, over the top of the head (keeps it away from the compass), to a block in the head, where it meets the power cable.
I have a JRC 1000 which I have been very happy with. I had the installation and adjustment checked by a pro, and other than making a minor adjustment on the display, he pronounced it fine.
I used an Edson powder coated mount, and that and the 8 lb radome have absolutely no effect on the boat. I didn't want to use a mast, partly for esthetics. Also, since range is a function of height above the water, you really gain by getting it up several more feet on a Flicka (13-14 ft vs. 24 or so, maybe?).
I did the whole project myself. The worst parts were finding the center of the mast, drilling though the deck (about 3" of lay-up and core, alternating), and praying that I wasn't drilling through the mast wiring. Everything came out great, and it was one of my prouder moments. Saved a bunch of money to pay the yard bill...
Priscilla
s/v Cadenza
2. Safety Note
Radar uses microwaves to detect a target. This is the same wavelength in the radio spectrum a microwave oven uses to cook food (remember the old Amana Radar Range). Please read the manufacturer's instructions about safety and radome mounting location to avoid "cooking" your brain or other body parts.
The WebCaptain
Rod Bruckdorfer
©: copyright 2000 Rod Bruckdorfer
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