Radar Mounting

[jmoneilthe2]

I have purchased a Radar Mount and Radar for my Seafarer 22. I have a Bimini top not a hard top so I'm looking for advise on how high I need to set the Radar at to clear the Bimini Top. I have read about 8 inches? Does anyone else have this setup and can give me some advise?
Thanks,
John

 

[seasick]

What are going to mount the radar to? Do you have a radar arch or some other hard structure. Mounting the dome or array to the bimini top doesn't sound like a good idea.

The radar array should be mounted level to the water line while cruising. In addition, the beam of the radar should clear any obstacles like hard top, spot lights, antennas etc.
Since the beam is usually 15 degrees above and below the dome or array, the array needs to have a clear line of sight so if the beam hits the top, the unit needs to be raised and or moved forward or a combination of the two.
The closer to the boat that you want to see objects, the higher or more forward the array would have to be mounted.
The angle of the beam depends on the particular radar model. Call the manufacturer's support line . I am sure they will have the documentation and guidance.

 

[Sardinia306Canyon]

The radar array should be mounted level to the water line while cruising.

Yes and no as this is a decision what depends on where one is boating and on boa and it's bow rise below planing speed.
A radar level and reading perfectly at plaing speed and perhaps with trim tabs read not very well at non planing speed due unavoidable bow rise except 0-3 knots where bow rise is low.
For one who is boating in for example channels or other busy areas with speed limits he may choose a different radar tilt than boaters who speed at 30 knots 100 miles out and back and don't have speed limit areas where bow rise could be a problem.
In some conditions it's a good idea to make some shims and experiment when and under what condition radar reads at best and that could be just between 3-6 knots and planing speed to work for both acceptable well.

I have a Bimini top not a hard top so I'm looking for advise on how high I need to set the Radar at to clear the Bimini Top.

Can you explain better what you have and what you bought?
Do you have a thin tube foldable fabric Bimini top or a strong T-Top made of sturdy pipes with fabric cover?
The radar mount you bought is a long enough pole to stay above the top or a ScanStrut type 1 ft high one?

Yes, 8 inches is about right and also above your head as you don't want the radar beam to hit your head.

Chris