Improving vhf and fm reception

Slipin Away · Nov 5, 2015

run a new cable outside the mast until the next time you have to step it

Don S/V ILLusion · Nov 5, 2015

ArkadiyS said:
We took down our mast (to fix a leak) and at the same time replaced our VHF cable all the way from the top-mast antenna to the nav station in the cabin (where our stationary VHF is hooked-up). Unfortunately, after reinstalling the mast, we have determined that there is a break/or a short in the VHF cable and the reception of our on-board VHF is pretty bad. Without spending another $400 to unstep and re-step the mast followed by replacement of plugs and/or cable, i am looking for an easier option. Is there a way to amplify/boost the VHF signal, without the use of the mast-top antenna?

No. If it is broken (very unlikely), it's a bigger problem on transmit for the VHF radio than on receive. The transmit range will 'suck' and you could damage the radio. It's more likely you have a bad connector - what kind did you use and did you use a crappy crimp connector anywhere?

Fixing an improper connector is easier and much cheaper than replacing the coax.

Don S/V ILLusion · Nov 5, 2015

Bear with me for asking the following:

What type coax?
Are you confident in the quality of the solder joints?
What kind of "signal booster" functions on transmit?

Maine Sail · Nov 5, 2015

ArkadiyS said:
I agree, that it is most likely a connector. I tested the wiring for the lights when I replaced wires and lights, but did not test the replaced coax cable...?? I used the connectors from West Marine and soldered them on. I just bought a VHF signal booster that works within the marine radio range, and will test it out. For now, we are using our handheld backup VHF, it is just not as good.

Most likely an improperly executed soldering job. Bad soldering of PL-259's is my #2 failure mode regarding VHF issues. #1 Is the crappy Shakespere "center-pin" pinch on connectors... Anytime you do a VHF install a means of checking performance BEFORE stepping the mast should be done. Usually an SWR meter is used and they cost a lots less than 1 step/unstep to fix the issue. Now it is going to require time in the "Chair".... Start by replacing the mast base PL-259. You have a 50/50 shot it is the issue. If not, it's time to go up the spar in the chair.

Rick D · Nov 5, 2015

Maine Sail said:
Most likely an improperly executed soldering job. Bad soldering of PL-259's is my #2 failure mode regarding VHF issues. #1 Is the crappy Shakespere "center-pin" pinch on connectors... Anytime you do a VHF install a means of checking performance BEFORE stepping the mast should be done. Usually an SWR meter is used and they cost a lots less than 1 step/unstep to fix the issue. Now it is going to require time in the "Chair".... Start by replacing the mast base PL-259. You have a 50/50 shot it is the issue. If not, it's time to go up the spar in the chair.

Oh swell, I missed a meeting. I have three Shakesperes ready to install.I thought I was buying quality. Have used them in the past without problems. I guess I was just lucky.

Maine Sail · Nov 5, 2015

Rick D said:
Oh swell, I missed a meeting. I have three Shakesperes ready to install.I thought I was buying quality. Have used them in the past without problems. I guess I was just lucky.

Sorry but this is the one product that DESERVES a CLASS ACTION SUIT! Someone will die because of these and then hopefully the manufacturer will pay for their stupidity. Best place for them is in the round file. Sorry to be so blunt but I have not come across a crappier more unreliable product in the marine market since, well, I don't have a since.. DANGEROUS!!!

Our VHF is a critical piece SAFETY EQUIPMENT! I find these connectors akin to using kite string as a tether or a condom as a life jacket........

Don S/V ILLusion · Nov 5, 2015

ArkadiyS said:
The cable was the best marine grade...II do not recall which specifically. The guy who replaced our rigging recommended to use the best, since it will probably not get replaced for a while. The connectors came from WM...not sure which ones. I already tested the connector inside the cabin, and unfortunately it was not it. So it is either the one at the antenna (top of the mast) or the one inside the mast...of course. Cannot replace the cable without installing. I did such a great job in waterproofing everything that it can no longer be pulled through. The bosterbis only on a receive, I believe.

Cable - I assume someone at WM called it "the best"? Regardless,
Connectors - WM doesn't sell the best but they shouldn't fail immediately.
Frankly, it's impossible to test without an antenna analyzer or SWR meter at a minimum as the antenna you are using will show continuity at DC even though it is RF isolated so any indication obtained from the coax (while connected to your antenna) by simply using a multimeter is useless.

Don't know what else to suggest except return the booster as it is not just useless but, because it can artificially raise the noise floor screwing with the characteristics of the receiver, likely is actually doing more harm than good.

mortyd · Nov 6, 2015

if you're in fairfield , how far out of range of a good hand-held vhf do you expect to sail on long island sound? i sail the same waters you do and i never use the built in vhf that came with the boat.

heluse · Nov 12, 2015

Oops! I was getting ready to buy a Sheakspere antenna and connectors figuring they were the best. What do you recomend instead?