HF Radio on R 21 EC

[KentSidel]

I hope to buy a new R 21 next spring but am doing some of the homework early.

I'm a ham radio operator and having high frequency radio on board is very important to me.

Is the factory willing to work with the guys at http://www.hfradio.com/index.html to install an ICOM M-802/AT-140 hf radio with 21' foot antenna? This would involve bronze grounding plates on the hull and some copper strap. We would also have to find the best location for the equipment in the cabin.

Is this one of my great ideas I should just walk away from, or is it doable so that it fits into the overall look of the boat?

 

[captain's cat]

Kent, why would you not use a simple HF ham radio? I've used an FT 100D on my C-Dory and it works fine with the Autotuning ATAS-100 antenna and just using the boats negative battery ground. Have worked Austrailia on 15 meters from the Chesapeake.

Charlie
Captain's Cat
K4KBA

 

[Andrew Custis]

Hello Kent,

I would suggest emailing Jeff Messmer @ jeffmessmer@rangertugs.com. He will be able to work with you on what we can and cannot do. Shouldn'nt be a problem though.

 

[KentSidel]

Andrew, Thanks for the quick response. Have emailed Jeff.

Hello, Charlie, Thanks for the suggestion. Most hams have their retirement radio dream, and this is mine. Plus, the Icom M604 and M802 have the new DSC alarm system. I plan to have both hooked up and operating on my R21EC. I know I need all the help I can get when it comes to saltwater safety.

We may get up toward Deltaville, VA this summer looking for Ranger Tug 21s at the local dealer there.

73
Kent
K4MKS

 

[captain's cat]

Hi Kent, I know what you mean. I retired from the Navy in 1991 but have been working ever since. My dream was an FT1000D but it's too big to put on even the Tomcat!

If you get into the Bay, come see us! We're on the Potomac where it hits the Bay, I can see Pt. Lookout from my pier.

Charlie