Re: where to mount VHF antenna
I never liked the aft location because of electrical interference from the engine.
+ on my small boat, folding fwd seemed awkward too.
I read somewhere that the antenna should be at least three feet away from people when you are transmitting. It was in an instruction sheet, but I can't remember if it came with a radio or an antenna.
agreed, i read the same thing. though i can't remember either. i think it was to keep it away from the transmitter of the radio.
So, I always figured the best location was as high as practical on the starboard side
agreed, except in my situtation, starboard side was to close. with in 3'. my boat's 19'. port side was only possibility for 3' + antenna location.
i also used the steel mount. probably a good idea to go heavy duty. i'd think lots of stress on it due to antenna height.
edit, whatever ya do. do thru bolt it. and back plate it too. i'm using ss 1/4-20's with ss fender washers as a back plate on 4 thru bolts. i sealed it with silicon sealer. don't know if it was the thing to use, but it don't seem to leak after several years.