NorthernFocus
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2014
- Messages
- 1,496
- Location
- Alaska
- Website
- www.northernfocusphotography.com
- Fluid Motion Model
- R-25 Classic
- Hull Identification Number
- FMLT25910808
- Vessel Name
- Divine Focus
Our 2008 model R25 had the original mast design that folded to the side rather than forward as on later models. It was positioned better from an esthetic standpoint but was a poor design for stowing/deploying every launch. The radar on the mast made it heavy to handle while fitting the bracket in the stowed position and dictated the need for wire stays when in working position. Also the stays were in the way for carrying a long double kayak on the roof rack. So a couple of seasons after acquiring the boat I moved the radome off of the mast onto a dedicated mount. I would have eliminated the mast altogether but the white nav light has to be at least 3 ft above the side lights which are on top of the cabin. At least it made folding/deploying the mast much easier and eliminated the need for the stays. But it was still more complicated than necessary and still required climbing on top of the cabin to stow/deploy the mast. Less than ideal where we launch which is rainy and/or windy most of the time. So a couple of years ago I finally got around to replacing the original mast with a simple light mast fitted to a standard cam lock style folding antenna mount. I'm able to erect/fold it without climbing on top of the cabin. Pics below.
Original design
Radome moved and stays eliminated
Simplified mast
Original design
Radome moved and stays eliminated
Simplified mast