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installing a vhf

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cmckitrick
Navigator

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USA
119 Posts

Initially Posted - 06/23/2005 : 23:43:56

I've only replaced the main switch on my panel and that is the extent of my electric experience. Can someone tell me everything I need to put in a VHF. I am replacing the old one which has a different type of connection to the unit. The antena is already in place. I would like to do this in one trip. The VHF comes with the wires but do I need terminal connectors? I have a crimping tool. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

Charlie McKitrick
Norwell, MA
Valiant Lady... for now
'81 C 25 SR/FK

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seastream
Navigator

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USA
242 Posts

Response Posted - 06/24/2005 : 09:28:40

You say the VHF comes with wires. If you mean it came with a power connector with wires, then all you need do perhaps is to cut the wires off the old radio and butt splice your new radio wires into the wires left that lead to your power source (battery, switch panel, etc).

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Bruce Baker
Captain

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USA
402 Posts

Response Posted - 06/24/2005 : 09:59:01

My PO hard-wired the VHF directly to the battery. The thinking behind this is that you want to have continuing access to the radio, even if your electrical panel blows a fuse, or if you don't have the "main" switch on. The radio has its own line fuse, just in case. If you want to go that route, wiring the radio is really simple. Just connect black and red directly to your battery terminals.

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ClamBeach
Master Marine Consultant

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3072 Posts

Response Posted - 06/24/2005 : 10:16:10

"...do I need terminal connectors? I have a crimping tool..."

Short answer... yes. Either use 'butt splices' to put the wires together or get 'quick-disconnects' that have a male and female side.

Quick disconnects make it easy to remove things later on if that's "in the works". Note: For really 'Bristol' offshore-ready service, all electrical connections should be soldered... that said, I have a lot of crimped connections on my boat. ;>)

Much longer and unsolicited commentary about 'stuff' you need on your boat:

One of the keys to successful boat maintenance and projects is building up an onboard 'kit' so you have the materials at hand for projects or to make repairs.

"Stuff" I typically keep onboard:

Wiring kit:
Toolbox with crimpers, lots of assorted terminals, wire stripper, soldering iron, tinning paste, solder, electrical tape, heat-shrink tubing, tie-wraps, lengths of assorted wire, fuses, multi-meter.

Stainless 'possibles' box(es):
I have (5) Plastic rubbermaid 'tackle organizers' full of "stuff". They hold about 40 lbs of assorted nuts, bolts, screws, washers, fender washers, finishing washers, cotter pins, hitch pins, (yada). I've spend years building up the assortment. Having at least the basic stainless bits and pieces on board is a real lifesaver. Start building your collection today!

Rigging box:
Extra halyard shackles (headsail and main), sail slugs & shackles, track stops, carabiners, chain 'quick links', anchor shackles, seizing wire, rigging tape, spare turnbuckles, various blocks, extra line, etc. This is another kit that's taken some time to accumulate.

Tools:
3/8" drive socket set, screwdriver set, small hammer, a couple drifts, awl, pliers (needlenose,regular,channel-lock), vice-grips, diagonal cutter, 'nippers', cheap open/box end wrench set, industrial knife (quick change blades), caulking gun. Battery powered drill (inexpensive 9.6V Skil), drill index (set), "mini" hack-saw.

Consumables:
3M 101, Lifeseal or Sikkaflex, 3M 5200, Line-dip (coats ends of cut line), WD-40, Never-seize, PB-Blaster, Hand cleaner, Sikkens Cetol, Simple-green, various foam brushes.

Miscellaneous:
Bungee cords, duct-tape, rags, masking tape (the blue stuff), sandpaper.

Heavy Machinery:
Lathe, Anvil, Forming Rolls, Backhoe (I'm only kidding here)

Edited by - on

Dave Laux
Captain

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318 Posts

Response Posted - 06/25/2005 : 07:46:00

If your radio is old enough to be replaced your antenna and its cable probably should have been replaced years ago. If the antenna is bad you will destroy the new radio. You will need an Shakespeare 5215CX, and probably some Shak. PL259CP (these are the best 259 connectors I have ever seen , I would throw out the conectors that come with the antenna), a cable clam, and maybe a 259 coax joining piece. I use about 5 of these antennas every year rerigging sail boats and this setup works well. The cable clam lets you put the joint in the cable below deck which helps it stay warm and dry and uncorroded. Dave

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Happy D
Admiral

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921 Posts

Response Posted - 06/25/2005 : 07:51:50

Dave,
I seen mention of the cable clam before for coax. The WM catalog shows two different sizes. Do you know off hand which one you use?
Yes, I'm being lazy at the moment.
Thanks,
Dan

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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.