Opinion Needed - VHF Antenna mounting and type
 

Fellow OSO members.... Please give me your opinion

I want to install a fix mounted VHF radio in my 38 Fountain but am struggeling with where and how to mount the antenna. I have an fiberglass arch and considered putting on a 4 ft sail boat type that I can easily remove and store, Just looking for some thoughts and experiences.... I fear mounting something that is going to be a major eye sore and also a headache when running at speed.

Please let me know what you have done and/or seen. Any pics you have would be appreciated also. Thanks for your responses in advance.

Re: Opinion Needed - VHF Antenna mounting and type
 

Made mine myself. Wanted it small enough to mount below the rail when the antenna is not installed so it will not rub threw the cockpit cover. Fits between the inside of the rail and the hatch pad so not an eyesore. The base stays clamp to the rail, with the upper section with the antenna removeable. It just slides into the lower section, and will not come out while in use.

Re: Opinion Needed - VHF Antenna mounting and type
 

more views.
1st set of pics are of an Al mount
I then made another one out of SS to match the railing better. SS =bling bling :D

I just use the 3' SS antenna. Has been fine for my use.

Re: Opinion Needed - VHF Antenna mounting and type
 

Thanks for the great pics...I want to mount it inside the boat or on top of my radar arch, so something like you have made is perfect. Any interest in making another one and selling it? :drink:

Re: Opinion Needed - VHF Antenna mounting and type
 

Thanks.
Sorry, but takes to much time to make. I think I had around 16hrs in the S/S one from start to finish. I did this over winter in my off time, now that boating season has started, I won't even make stuff for myself. If you wanna pay shop rate x 16, I'll sell you the one I have on my boat. :) I do have the alum one I 1st made, but in all honesty, just do to the time I have in it, I couldn't let it go for anything less than $100.And that's giving it away. 1 of a kind custom parts come with a price tag. There are only 2 in existance, and I have them both. (patent pending) :D