VHF radio installation.

RichardD

I'm trying to install a Shakespeare 8' VHF antenna on my new 226 fed with fishing chairs. Has anyone performed this installation? Where and what type mount!

cjjjdeck

I used a RAM rail mount my antenna on my bimini top side rail.  It also allows for quick and easy access to lower the antenna to go under low bridges or go under other obstructions one might encounter.  The models are RAM-112U Antenna Mount & RAM-231U 3/4" to 1"rail mount adapter.  I liked this method of mounting because it allows you to attach the antenna to the highest point on the boat for best performance.  The mount doesn't interfere when collapsing the bimini to a stowed position either.  I don't have the need for a VHF radio all the time and don't use my boat in the deep ocean, so I use a hand held VHF attached to a mast antenna to give it the best range it can get when I do need it.

Here's the link to the antenna mount:

http://www.rammount.com/CatalogResults/PartDetails/tabid/63/partid/082065077045049049050085/Default.aspx

Here's the link to the adapter:

http://www.rammount.com/CatalogResults/PartDetails/tabid/63/partid/082065077045050051049085/Default.aspx

Here's some pics of my mount installed

Hope this helps!