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Radar upgrade replacement

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by RaySchwager, Apr 21, 2019.

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  1. RaySchwager, Apr 21, 2019
    #1
    RaySchwager

    RaySchwager New Member

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    Los Angeles
    I have a 1995 50’ Ocean Alexander and I would like to upgrade my radar. What would be the general cost and is this something that I could do myself ?
  2. d_meister, Apr 21, 2019
    #2
    d_meister

    d_meister Senior Member

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    Many people install their own radars. The prices are all over the board, so maybe go to a chandler and discuss the selection process with a knowledgeable product specialist. Bear in mind, that a radar can be a very critical safety tool. If installed incorrectly, it may lead you to think your course is clear when it is not. Also, reliability is affected by proper attention to detail when installing, such as adequate power supply, appropriate wire and wiring connections, waterproofing, selection of installation materials, mounting, and final adjustments.
    Perhaps peace of mind would be worth the cost of installation.
  3. RaySchwager, Apr 21, 2019
    #3
    RaySchwager

    RaySchwager New Member

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    Thank you for getting back to me everything you said is so informative some of those things I didn't think about
  4. d_meister, Apr 21, 2019
    #4
    d_meister

    d_meister Senior Member

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    You're welcome. Trying to be helpful. :)
  5. Pascal, Apr 21, 2019
    #5
    Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

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    First question is where and how do you use the boat. If you are up north like New England where fog is very frequent then indeed a good radar is important.

    If you re down south what you have maybe enough.

    I have seen way too many boat owners who feel they have to spend a lot of money and get the latest electronics even though they don’t need them.

    Then of course it s hard to suggest an upgrade without knowing what you have...
  6. Capt Fred, Apr 22, 2019
    #6
    Capt Fred

    Capt Fred Senior Member

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    My equipment is likely 20 years old or older. It is a Raymarine open array and a C80 Classic display. Very happy with the performance and not looking to replace until it breaks.
  7. Kapn, Apr 24, 2019
    #7
    Kapn

    Kapn Member

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    Newer equipment is actually easier to install these days. The Furuno radars I've helped install have an ethernet cable and a power cable to run to the mast. We've taken out a thick cable and replaced them with two smaller more flexible cables. Then all the other instruments are now linked with NMEA2000 links. So there are very few finicky little wires to join like there once was. There are still the installation set ups of lining up the heading on a target and it's important to use it in good daylight to confirm it's operation.
  8. ranger58sb, Apr 27, 2019
    #8
    ranger58sb

    ranger58sb Senior member

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    What benefit are you hoping to achieve?

    -Chris