Where to mount a radar antenna?

[Hoplite808]

Hello all,

I am thinking of adding a radar to my 3227 and am trying to figure out the best place to mount the antenna if I were to do so. As I see it there are several options.

1) Radar Arch - PRO: This would definitely be a stable mount and would provide a nice base to mount more lights as well as other equipment without really changing the design of the boat or require any major rebuilds. CON: This would be expensive coming in at about $2500-3000 for a cheap one. Additionally it would add height to the boat which could affect bridge clearance although with extra expense could be made to fold.

2) Flybridge Hard Top - PRO: This would increase the comfort of the flybridge from the elements and could serve as a platform to mount extra storage and accessories as well. CON: By far the most expensive option and would similar to the arch increase the height of the boat but it’s not likely to be able to be folded.

3) Post/Mast - PRO: This is less expensive than the full arch and just as stable and could be made to fold. CON: Less surface area for accessories than the arch and would likely have to be custom manufactured as the options I’ve been able to find so far are more for sailboats and just wouldn’t look right or mount easily as designed to the flybridge.

4) Bulkhead Mount to the front of the flybridge - PRO: This is by far the least expensive mount and doesn’t affect the height of the vessel at all. CON: Mounting this here would interfere with the antenna’s 360 degree field of view reducing it to about 180° to 200° instead.

For those who have added radar where have you mounted the antenna and how well has that working for you?

[waybomb]

I don't like 4. Unless you can be certain that the the transmission of the microwaves are turned off when pointing toward you and your guests. And nobody can stand in front of it when transmitting.
Also, I use radar for my own weather watch. You could have storms approaching from the rear and not know it.
I'd go with #1 and if height is really a concern, one that folds.

[bud37]

I agree with Fred...

You might also consider a small post/mount on a lower height radar arch, that will get it up and away from you, keep boat overall height down when post/mount folded.......definitely not on the bridge coaming....consider what that would be aimed at if going 360......hmmm. Other things can go on the arch as well.

If height is a real concern, stick with the canvas bridge enclosure and the arch...IMO..good luck with your decision.

[g36]

Here's a 3227 with a folding radar pole. May not be exactly what youre looking for but here's the link.. https://www.rightboat.com/boats-for-sal ... 7/rb438644

[sbb2112]

I know this is a little old but this is my setup. The mast on the arch is hinged with gas springs to help with folding it down. The height of the mast is 36" which gets the dome above everyone on the boat.

IMG_4927.jpg