---

I am pondering some options here and any help / guidance / insight would be helpful.

I am currently running a Shakespeare Squatty Body (ebay find) on a Shakespears 2001ex radio. also I just replaced the AM/FM receiver all on my 17 Montauk. All electronics are located in the typical locations; VHF behind louvered door, cable out, up console rail and connected to 3' foot antenna . AM/FM receiver cut into console with protective splashguard.
My problem is range of communication. My Sqautty body is a 3dB gain antenna and is barely good for 1/2 mile.

What I am looking to do is run a 8' Shakespeare (centennial) antenna with a am/fm splitter mounted under the console. The antenna will be a 6dB and either rail mounted or side mounted - but will be located at the console.
I am almost wanting to play with the wild idea of two 8' on either side one for the VHF and one for AM/FM, dedicated. 8' off of the deck with an additional 2'-6" would give me the range I am after and also the enjoyment of peoples faces as we putt by with these hillbilly antennea.

So I would like to ask what are you guys running, gain, preceived range, location of mounts and any 'bewares'....

Thanks

---

I think you are looking at big time overkill. Are you wanting cosmetic Bling or end results? The 8ft VHF antenna elevated as much as you can get it will give you the best results. You will see almost no difference in the number of antennas. AM/FM will be receiving and not broadcasting so it's going to be pretty much what it is even with a smaller antenna. Be sure not to cut the VHF antenna wire. Coil it and leave it under the console at the packaged length.

---

If you are only getting 1/2 mile from your current setup, there is something seriously wrong. I can get 4-5 miles with my handheld.

---

On the splitter single antenna setup - does anyone have any experience with an antenna pulling double duty?


JohnnyCw:
I wonder what gain your handheld has?

---

I could pull 5+ miles with my Montauk set-up with a 3' whip mounted on the side of the console. I never had any luck with the splitters but that was 15 years ago.

---

My Icom handheld is 5w max with a normal flexible antenna. I don't know the gain of the antenna but its got to be minimal being so small. My Outrage's mounted radio is 25w max which is normal and I run an 8' antenna in the back. I get about 10-12 miles from it when communicating with the marina near where I keep my boat.

The biggest limiting factor of a properly working system is elevation. We can easily pull reliable VHF communications 20-25 miles with our 25w VHF radios at work but the tops of the antennas are a little over 40 feet above the waterline.

---

Thanks.
I agree and completely understand the height vs. distance of tramission ratio.
I will probably go the 8' route - one for now.

- Thanks all -