VHF Radio Decisions

[blakendall]

I am looking to install a VHF antenna on my boat. I am going to install in the console (not sure which one), but wondering about the antenna. I have a bimini top so I need to most likely install on the grab rail. What type of antenna would be best whip etc... also wondering if there is a multifunction antenna that I could also hook up FM side to as well.

[Harry]

Here's my set up if that helps. http://www.carolinaskiffowner.com/showthread.php?t=2512&highlight=antenna

I was concerned with it hitting the Bimini and went with the short sail boat antenna.
I think you can use a splitter set up and use it for FM reception too, but don't know a lot about that.

Being on the water I get good FM reception and have a 12 powered antenna for that.

Hope this helps

[blakendall]

Harry thanks. This is just what I was thinking of doing based on my discussion with my dealer. Just need something that I can remove when I take it out to the lake

[Harry]

No problem.

Also the weather conditions must have been just right, cause one day I spoke with my buddy on that radio and he was running back in from the cayon on his 45' Ocean and still 45 miles offshore !!! :eek:

[Redfish]

Blake, I got the same SS whip-type antenna as Harry, but I got the bayonet mount (antenna just "twists and locks" into the base). I did not use a ratchet-type mount and just remove my antenna when I put the boat under my shed. Not having to buy the base saves you some money and slims up the mounting footprint. I mounted mine on the left side of the upper horizontal part of the grab rail. I get excellent reception and have not had any trouble talking 5 miles or more to other boats.

Can't comment on the splitter for FM, although I have heard they work very well.

[Fillet1]

The 3 foot whip works well and works for FM too. But I prefer a separate Fm antenna rather than the splitter.

[NOTHING ELSE MATTERS]

Splitter=60.00
"marine" white whip 12"antenna=12.00
auto parts black whip antenna=5.00

Any questions *006*