Radar Question

[Tony Walker]

A question about the mounting angle of the Raymarine antenna array.

On most boats, including mine, it has a definite down angle in the forward direction.  Like it is expecting the boat to be on plane for the array to be level with the horizon during use.

My experience with this radar system the way it would be useful for me, at displacement speeds,  is not very good.  I get targets but they are not targets until far too late for the radar data to be of any use.  It turns out that fooling with the radar is such a distraction for me that I am better off not using it.  Much better info just looking out the windshield.

The bottom line is that when I am on plane, I do not need radar,  I am not on plane unless I am sure of the depths and I can see the environment visually and traffic is light etc.  It is when circumstances require being not on plane where the radar would be of great value.  Boat level, but as it is now the antenna being pointed down.

Should I shim the antenna array so that it is level when the boat is moving slowly and not on plane, angled for bow up?

Tony
Salt Shaer 342

[alswagg]

Tony, you can remove the wedge under the scan strut without any problems.  You are correct as the Original intent was to have the radar level with the horizon while on plane, which is 5* to 7*.   While idling the top of the arch is pretty close to 0* or level.  Shim as needed to your preferance.  Al

[sailor]

Al in Evansville the temp is about 22 degrees and a dusting of
snow is expected. KY Lake was cold with some ice on exposed
docks. Not many sailors remain for the winter. Our Rinker looks
ready for winter ?

[Tony Walker]

Al, Thank you for that info.  As usual, very helpful.  I have the wedge removal on my list of stuff to have done.

Here in sunny FL, it is in the 50's  Burrrrrrr

Tony
Salt Shaker 342

[Lifes Good]

I'll take 50 and a tee shirt anytime!  Darn Seattle Rain!

[alswagg]

We just returned last night from the UP of Michigan.  We were snowmobiling up there for the past 7 days.  We had a blast, temps were average, low of -4* F.  Anyway, waist deep snow made for some great riding.  Good luck with the radar.  Al