Crazyhorse

I agree, they certainly are not reliable, its more of a hobby.

You are in luck! Its a bit fiddly to get going but google Software Defined Radio and I am assuming its AIS you are wanting? It uses a cheap digital tv usb dongle as a receiver and the software for AIS reception "plugs" into the AIS operation programme using a virtual sound card. Trademe has them as does alixpress. Nothing cheap yet that will output NMEA for plotters but I have AIS on a Samsung Tablet using OTG and a cheap usb dongle. Portable VHF "slim jim" antennas can be made out of 300ohm tv ribbon, plans on the net.

Just a foot note..my own personal experience is that radio use when at sea is minimal (when healing over on the rare occasions the wind is not on the nose!) compared to under power approaching or leaving port. Mast mounted antennas are usually a 1/2 wave or small 1/4 wave which have no "gain" (most of the energy goes up into space) which is ideal when healed over but for distance, not that good. A base loaded 5/8 mounted on a transom will generally out do a "unity gain" antenna, is easy to get to for maintenance and the lower height isnt an issue.

An interesting thread. I repair and do installs for boats when in Marsden Cove and water in the coax is a very common problem, here's a trick to stop it. Leave enough coax at the top of the mast to put a couple of loops in it then connect to your SO259 connector 1/2 wave antenna. If water does get in (sounds like a tooth paste add!), it won't run the full lenght of the coax. Even better, cut the coax and add a SO259 joiner with 2 PL259 plugs about a metre from the antenna in a loop with the joiner at the bottom. Now its easy to replace the water logged coax and water can not get into the rest.

Re: Your mail to info@pelagicautopilot.com Hi, your message will be forwarded to PelagicAutopilot.com (Received April 7th. No reply yet).

I must be wrong as I thought MNZ only delt with commercial vessels? Recreational is the harbour master? $1700 for a $55k boat, insurance having to pickup the rest?

Not sure if it would work on keel bolts but a density meter might work? Seen one used on concrete. If there were differences in density between the bolts, it probably would show up?

Yep, you CAN solder stainless steel (Ive done it). Google it!

Thanks.

'Con Eller' a 12m old style launch with a husband and wife aboard has been reported overdue. Vessel left Marsden Cove Marina Thursday bound for Gt Barrier.

Was she 'Calusa'?

Runs well. 55 amp Hitachi alternator that fits Yanmar 80mm (3.15") mount, M8 bolt with M7 inserts. No longer needed as fitted a big buggar. Available to be seen Marsden Cove Marina. Yacht Crazyhorse.