installing an amateur radio

[bluestreak]

We just purchased a Ranger Tug and I want to equip my 2016 R-27 with an amateur radio 2 meter transceiver.
How difficult is it to pull the coax from the new antenna I will need to install on the port cabin top to the starboard open compartment above the helm?
Also need to run 10 gauge wire to the same location.
I certainly don't want it to look like a hack job!
Thanks,
Bill AE7UI

 

[Crewdog]

Hi Bill:

It was a pretty good pain in the transom to route the antenna wire from the centerline tv antenna inlet to the helm overhead; ended up removing the stbd overhead hatch and most of the headliner attach screws and mounts. It is doable, but just don't be in a hurry.

Pulled DC power from the auxiliary wiring block in the helm electronics station and fused both pos and neg sides. Also got a noise cancelling mic for the Icom 4100.



I cut a hole in a pizza pan for a ground plane, and fashioned a mount using a SeaSucker dual cup. It holds on at freeway speeds as well.

 

[bluestreak]

Hi Bill,
I figured it would not be a simple task.
The boat is in WA and I live in UT so it's not a quick (900+ miles) jaunt to visit.
I'll pack my HT in the meantime.
It won't have the power or antenna height but I should be able to reach the repeaters in the area.
Thanks,
Bill