Broke my vhf antenna

[frankie g]

Left it up while trailering. Went throught a toll both and snap! Is it possible to just glass it together? The top 12' or so broke, the outside casing snapped and the inside wiring seems to be fine. It's still together, it's just dangling there.

 

[NWFisher]

Re: Broke my vhf antenna

You know what they say, duct tape is the best way!

Frankly (no pun intended), you can fuss with it (think applying a splint) and maybe kinda fix it for awhile but when you need it most or bouncing on the bay is when it will wilt away.

NWFisher

 

[frankie g]

Re: Broke my vhf antenna

Thanks I found out that a repair would not effect the performance so I;m gonna glass it back together

 

[Monterey10]

Re: Broke my vhf antenna

When it comes time to replace it, watch the local shops for a sale on an antenna with a brass ferule on the bottom. These work much better than the plastic bases. Due to the high cost of shipping an antenna, this is one item you try to buy locally, when they go on sale.

 

[frankie g]

Re: Broke my vhf antenna

Yes, that's what I had....however when I was trailering my boat to the ramp I had to go through a toll booth and the ant. was up and snapped the top 8" or so. I've fixed it with a fiberglass repair kit for the time, and will replace it sometime this yr with anothe good ant.

 

[Monterey10]

Re: Broke my vhf antenna

We have low bridges in the San Joaquin Delta. Does the same thing.

 

[frankie g]

Re: Broke my vhf antenna

Yea, must be a aware of those low obstacles,

 

[Neverhome]

Re: Broke my vhf antenna

Next to your life jacket, a fully functioning radio is probably one of the most important safety pieces of equipment on your boat. I would not take a chance on trying to repair it. A new one is cheap insurance that you will be able to broadcast the stongest signal possible. If you choose to repair it make sure you do a standing wave ratio check before you head out on the water.

Neverhome

 

[frankie g]

Re: Broke my vhf antenna

done deal