Electronics to include Autopilot, chartplotter and more

[Robin's Nest]

We are looking to install autopilot, a chartplotter, AIS and Radar on our 36' Carver Aft Cabin which is a 1987. Has anyone ever installed this equipment on this type of boat?

Thanks for any input. We are planning on doing the Great Loop.

Robin's Nest
Dave and Robin

[Viper]

Welcome aboard D&R.

I'm sure several folks here have installed that equipment, what kind of information are you looking for? Are you looking for the type and brand or hardware used, how it was wired in, where the wiring was run? Do you have a 3807 model?

[km1125]

I'm guessing a 3607.

I definitely did a chartplotter (well, two of them), but never did AIS on that boat, nor radar. I wanted to do radar, but I didn't have an arch and wasn't really enthused about putting a radar dome right in front on the bridge which is where you typically see them located on that style boat.

The chartplotter is pretty straightforward. Mine also had depth/fish finder so I had put a transducer in for that, but it was easy because it was a "through-the-hull" type. Running the cable from the bilge to the bridge was the only hard part. That unit had a puck style GPS sensor and I just put that in the front of the bridge surround and it worked great.

Do you have a radar arch?

When you say AIS, I'm assuming you mean a full transponder so you can transmit your AIS position as well, right? Again, not hard but you want to dedicate an antenna to that.

[bud37]

Welcome to the forum.......one thing for sure, you want the radar as far off the water as possible and you also want it to see behind you as well. Considering that, then an arch or mounting pole etc will be necessary, they can be made collapsible. Never install a radar array on the front of the bridge coaming.....

The AIS will be good so you will be seen by commercial etc, those big ships move along much quicker than most think.

Do you have a hardtop over the rear deck ?...if so this is where many things can be mounted.

[waybomb]

Where do you boat?

[Viper]

QR_BBPOST I'm guessing a 3607....

I agree, don't know why I said 3807, thinking of mine I guess

[Robin's Nest]

Thanks everyone for your responses. Very valuable information
You have opened our eyes to lots and now pondering on tasks at hand
Robin's Nest