Search found 645 matches

by porthole
Sun Mar 13, 2016 1:16 pm
Forum: VHF MARINE RADIO
Topic: USCG Marine Safety Alert re DSC Distress Alert Calls
Replies: 12
Views: 13248

Re: USCG Marine Safety Alert re DSC Distress Alert Calls

I guess you can look at this several ways. First, I thought you had to have a MMSI number programmed into your radio to even use the DSC panic button? Second, if I have my radio programmed and not interfaced with position information and I send out a channel 70 DSC distress signal, the USCG may deci...
by porthole
Sun Mar 13, 2016 11:18 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: To Solder, or to not Solder
Replies: 5
Views: 4454

Re: To Solder, or to not Solder

jimh wrote:Heck, even in plumbing these days they've taken solder out of the connections--avoiding the lead, I guess.


Lead - leaks and fires !
by porthole
Sun Mar 13, 2016 12:06 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: To Solder, or to not Solder
Replies: 5
Views: 4454

Re: To Solder, or to not Solder

The problem with soldering connections may be tied to the inability for the average person to make a proper solder joint. Crimp connectors are fast and secure, especially when using marine grade products. Can you imagine the cost of labor increase if the ABYC required all wiring connections be solde...
by porthole
Sat Mar 12, 2016 9:12 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use
Replies: 115
Views: 159459

Re: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use

...Turns out the Garmin parts are not the same... Yes, I could have told you that--wait, I did tell you that: The Network T-connectors made by Lowrance (or Evinrude) and the ones made by Garmin have the standard DeviceNET Micro connectors and are compatible, but, if they are daisy-chained together,...
by porthole
Sat Mar 12, 2016 1:46 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use
Replies: 115
Views: 159459

Re: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use

Ahh, standards. My outboard pilot came with a NMEA 2000 starter kit. By installing a second HDS Gen3 I needed one more port. So I picked up a tee and cable from West Marine. Turns out the Garmin parts are not the same. Here is a Garmin Tee attached to the Lowrance 4-way tee. No way to screw this to ...
by porthole
Fri Mar 11, 2016 9:44 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use
Replies: 115
Views: 159459

Re: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use

To the best of my knowledge, there is no bridging or gateway between the NMEA network and the Ethernet network among Lowrance devices (or any other brands for that matter). If you want the NMEA-2000 devices to be available to the second HDS device, you need to connect that device to the NMEA-2000 n...
by porthole
Fri Mar 11, 2016 9:38 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

Hook 7 as installed on my 1997 17 Outrage http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/BW%2017%20OR%201997%20eBay/17_OR_Dash_zpsbthqljwv.jpg You cannot "pick your" screen layouts, only choose from a pallet of displays programmed in. This is probably the screen I would use mostly....
by porthole
Fri Mar 11, 2016 9:31 am
Forum: VHF MARINE RADIO
Topic: Radio Antenna Location on Small Center Console
Replies: 21
Views: 31896

Re: Radio Antenna Location on Small Center Console

Below my current antenna installation is shown. For the long haul I would probably use the stainless version of this ratchet mount. As shown, I was able to talk to a buddy who was about 7-miles away over land. Antenna in operating position: http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/BW%2...
by porthole
Fri Mar 11, 2016 9:08 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack
Replies: 27
Views: 18402

Re:Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack

Lowrance - no commissioning instructions supplied with the kit, just basic hardware install instructions. And the included instructions are slightly different from the online version. Lowrance outboard auto pilot installation instructions You have to go to youtube to get the info on how to set up th...
by porthole
Fri Mar 11, 2016 8:59 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use
Replies: 115
Views: 159459

Re: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use

Now a question for anyone here that has successfully set up two Lowrance HDS Gen3 chart plotters. Specifically: --two HDS Gen3 MFD's --LSS-2 StructureScan HD transducer --Airmar TM150 Transom Mount CHIRP Transducer --Ethernet connection --NMEA-2000 network connections --Point-1 (from the autopilot k...
by porthole
Thu Mar 10, 2016 9:14 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack
Replies: 27
Views: 18402

Re: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack

Seastar sells a three-pack of the fittings I need, which are already ordered. I need to pick up a 2-inch-long 1/4-inch pipe and elbow in order to get enough clearance to run the clear return line.

I installed just the pump today--it is tight on a 21-footer.
by porthole
Thu Mar 10, 2016 9:10 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Navigation Rules: Right of way
Replies: 43
Views: 23397

Re: Navigation Rules: Right of way

Jim, I knew where you were coming from, I should have added my extra comments and the additional emphasis on the original reply. That language wasn't there 30 years ago. Duane--I think you misinterpreted my remarks. I have been hearing the "story" about chipping-in for gas turning a friend...
by porthole
Thu Mar 10, 2016 8:52 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

I couldn't find your NMEA post when I made the above post, although I did remember it. Some standardization would be nice. I'm sure to the totally unaware types, the + and - will really throw them off. You have to wonder, both of those pictures I posted are from Lowrance's newest MFD's, makes me won...
by porthole
Thu Mar 10, 2016 8:48 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Electric-over-hydraulic Trailer Brakes
Replies: 12
Views: 8674

Re: Electric-over-hydraulic Trailer Brakes

I moved my 17 Outrage around tonight. I have disc with the surge coupler and when I went down the street to do a K-turn to get back in my driveway, I almost had to get out and lock the actuator. I don't know why my top of the line LoadRite did not come with a reverse lockout, I ordered about everyth...
by porthole
Thu Mar 10, 2016 9:25 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

NMEA 0183 Apparently the pins are standard on Lowrance chart plotters. I'm using the power data cable from my HDS Gen3. Before trying the 0183 connection I looked up several Lowrance chart plotters online and they all use the same 5 color data wires. Apparently NMEA 0183 specs are not standard amon...
by porthole
Thu Mar 10, 2016 9:12 am
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Navigation Rules: Right of way
Replies: 43
Views: 23397

Re: Navigation Rules: Right of way

The code of federal regulations in Title 46 Part 2101 defines the terms mentioned above, as follows: (5a) “consideration” means an economic benefit, inducement, right, or profit including pecuniary payment accruing to an individual, person, or entity, but not including a voluntary sharing of the ac...
by porthole
Wed Mar 09, 2016 7:46 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

But they also say the device has "no skimping" and "no shortcuts." H'mm, let's revisit this No sun shade No data cable No flush mount screws I'd say that is skimping. NMEA 0183 Apparently the pins are standard on Lowrance chart plotters. I'm using the power data cable from my HD...
by porthole
Wed Mar 09, 2016 6:48 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

Started my Hook 7 install today.
Anyone interested in this GPS chart plotter MFD should note that the transducer cable length is sufficient for my 17 Outrage, but I doubt it would be long enough on my 21 Outrage.
by porthole
Wed Mar 09, 2016 4:04 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Custom Radar Mount
Replies: 3
Views: 4184

Re: Custom Radar Mount

jimh wrote:For a built-to-custom order, I think the price is extremely reasonable.


Sure is.

What will the clamp be for?
by porthole
Wed Mar 09, 2016 11:03 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack
Replies: 27
Views: 18402

Re: Lowrance Autopilot Outboard Hydraulic Pack

First setback and all I did so far was look at the parts and my helm. The hose fitting supplied are "T'd" in the wrong direction. Supplied fittings are of this type. The 1/4-inch-NPT threads into the helm. The existing steering hose would attach to the bottom 3/8-inch-tube connection. This...
by porthole
Tue Mar 08, 2016 10:02 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Electric-over-hydraulic Trailer Brakes
Replies: 12
Views: 8674

Re: Electric-over-hydraulic Trailer Brakes

I'm somewhat familiar with trailer disc brakes. I have Kodiak-brand brakes with a Carlisle actuator on my RV. The electric-over-hydraulic actuator is a bit of a benefit in very hilly areas. My 17 Outrage trailer has disc brakes with a surge coupler. Backing into my driveway is a chore. If I don't ge...
by porthole
Mon Mar 07, 2016 6:08 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

Some screen shots and info on the Hook 7. http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/Lowrance/Hook%207/Lowrance_Hook_7_5_zpslh18z2z3.jpg NMEA info http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/Lowrance/Hook%207/Lowrance_Hook_7_8_zpsjv4htik4.jpg Didn't know this was a feature on ...
by porthole
Mon Mar 07, 2016 11:41 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Illuminating ATC Fuses
Replies: 3
Views: 3789

Re: Illuminating ATC Fuses

Do you know how these work?

I have a 12-Volt panel in my recreational vehicle that, when circuit is blown, an LED indicator lights up next to the bad fuse. But, it only lights up if there is a bad circuit. Slots not used do not light up with a fuse in place.
by porthole
Mon Mar 07, 2016 10:01 am
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Is a classic Montauk a good fit for me?
Replies: 17
Views: 11570

Re: Is a classic Montauk a good fit for me?

I really liked my 15 and took it out in some gnarly stuff, but no way I'd take it 20+ miles across open ocean, at least now. Maybe when I was a teen and invincible.
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 7:34 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Electric-over-hydraulic Trailer Brakes
Replies: 12
Views: 8674

Electric-over-hydraulic Trailer Brakes

[In a thread on a completely different topic, participant conch mentioned he was] adding electric-over-hydraulic disc brakes [to his boat trailer]. Chuck--Do you have some details on what you used with the brakes? Replacing the non-functioning drum brakes on my trailer is one of the upcoming project...
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 5:49 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Smartcraft to Better Integrate with Navico Displays
Replies: 10
Views: 10627

Re: Smartcraft to Better Integrate with Navico Displays

I fired up a Lowrance HDS 7 Gen3, logged onto my network, new software popped up, and went through the procedure to download and install. When I brought up the demo-simulaton mode to try the new SONAR features, the Mercury engine icon loaded. And now it looks like I am stuck with an icon for a featu...
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 12:21 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack
Replies: 27
Views: 18402

Re: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack

Really looking forward to installing and using this. I've installed "Iron Mikes" in my two previous bigger boats, and in two other boats I worked on. Four different types of kits and all rather costly. The 21 Outrage tends to wobble around a bit at slower speeds and at higher speeds, altho...
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 12:09 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack
Replies: 27
Views: 18402

Re: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack

All the electrical items and extra hydraulic fittings. http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/Lowrance/Autopilot/Lowrance_Autopilot_01_zpsi3jdx1i6.jpg The hydraulic stuff http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/Lowrance/Autopilot/Lowrance_Autopilot_03_zps70my4s3e.jpg
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 12:06 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack
Replies: 27
Views: 18402

Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack

The Lowrance OUTBOARD PILOT was discussed some time ago on the old forum . I'm starting a new thread on the Lowrance Outboard Pilot Hydraulic Pack . As mentioned previously, this is a complete package, less a display device, with some value-added components. The pilot uses a simple ON-OFF button to...
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 11:28 am
Forum: VHF MARINE RADIO
Topic: Radio Antenna Location on Small Center Console
Replies: 21
Views: 31896

Re: Radio Antenna Location on Small Center Console

I will come up with the part number for the stainless rail mount I pictured above.
I chose that version over the other types because of the smooth finish. Personally I think it just looks better, but it is also cover friendly.
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 11:17 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

http://www.lowrance.com/en-US/Products/Fishfinder-Chartplotter/hook-7-en-us.aspx The Hook 7 comes with the MFD, transducer, gimbal bracket, screws, knobs and "power only" cord with a red color coded connector. http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/Lowrance/Lowrance_Hook_7_...
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 11:03 am
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Show Us Your Whaler
Replies: 147
Views: 151155

Re: Show Us Your Whaler

spider wrote:Here is my 1985 Boston Whaler Revenge 25 Walk-Through...
Nice looking package. I'm going to miss having sleeping accommodations.
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 8:52 am
Forum: VHF MARINE RADIO
Topic: Radio Antenna Location on Small Center Console
Replies: 21
Views: 31896

Re: Radio Antenna Location on Small Center Console

I suggested the nylon lever mount in my post above. I would not use the nylon version if you decide to use an extension. A stainless version (shown in my pictures above) is available and sturdy enough, and doesn't cost that much more. Using the extension pictured on my console, the tip of the antenn...
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 8:14 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Dual USB Charging Port
Replies: 4
Views: 4437

Re: Dual USB Charging Port

But, some of us already have a dash full of rectangular cut openings. In my case I have at least one unused switch that is just filling a hole. I really do not think Blue Seas came out with this version to replaces the simple hole saw round version, rather for OEM and for folks who already have the ...
by porthole
Sun Mar 06, 2016 7:28 am
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Dual USB Charging Port
Replies: 4
Views: 4437

Re: Dual USB Charging Port

Me too! I also have the round-port-style dual-USB charger. But, I will be redoing my flush mount to change chart plotters, so I may just have to try one of these. I like that it is also a high-current dual charger; total output is 4.8-Amperes. That means it should be able to handle two iPads. Not th...
by porthole
Sat Mar 05, 2016 8:55 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

I got my Lowrance Hook 7. This is a chart plotter I purchased as a not-too-expensive item to put on my 1997 17 Outrage, which I plan on putting up for sale. I realize some buyers may care less what electronics are on a boat--I never did, always put my own stuff on--but I plan on presenting a turn ke...
by porthole
Sat Mar 05, 2016 8:28 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Dual USB Charging Port
Replies: 4
Views: 4437

Dual USB Charging Port

Found [a vendor website selling the BLUE SEA SYSTEMS Contura Style Dual USB Charging Port] tonight. It would go nice to a switch line up to keep things neat and tidy.

http://www.westmarine.com/buy/blue-sea-systems--contura-style-dual-usb-charging-port--16016057
by porthole
Sat Mar 05, 2016 8:11 pm
Forum: VHF MARINE RADIO
Topic: Radio Antenna Location on Small Center Console
Replies: 21
Views: 31896

Re: Radio Antenna Location on Small Center Console

Your choices should be fine in Barnegat bay. The radio you picked is a good value. The antenna Jim linked to [the GAM SS-2] is a very nice unit and based on his recommendation I put [a GAM SS-2 antenna] on my 21 Outrage. Gam SS-2 http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/BW%2017%20OR%20...
by porthole
Fri Mar 04, 2016 11:35 am
Forum: TRIPS and RENDEZVOUS
Topic: Door County, Wisconsin Rendezvous - August 2016
Replies: 33
Views: 50665

Re: Door County, Wisconsin Rendezvous - August 2016

Gotcha. For we pretty much consider 2 and under as almost being flat.
On the swell side, during some conditions we may get 6-10 foot or more swells with no waves. Those really get people heaving.
by porthole
Fri Mar 04, 2016 11:31 am
Forum: TRIPS and RENDEZVOUS
Topic: Manhattan 2016
Replies: 10
Views: 22215

Re: Manhattan 2016

June 18th - Oh well, guess we'll wait for the pictures.
by porthole
Thu Mar 03, 2016 3:01 pm
Forum: TRIPS and RENDEZVOUS
Topic: Door County, Wisconsin Rendezvous - August 2016
Replies: 33
Views: 50665

Re: Door County, Wisconsin Rendezvous - August 2016

That looks to be about 55 miles across open water. What are typical lake conditions in the summer?
Here on the coast we can pretty much count on a SE-SW stiff breeze every day around 2-3pm. Is the weather similar to that on the lake?
by porthole
Thu Mar 03, 2016 2:51 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: USCG Response Boat Capsizes During Rescue
Replies: 21
Views: 20994

Re: USCG Response Boat Capsizes During Rescue

Re comments about Saul Ste Marie: We've been going there, in every season, for 30 years. We are on our second cabin near there in the UP. The Soo is a nice town with a lot of activity and government jobs. There is Lake Superior State University, US Army Corps of Engineers who run the locks, a HUGE ...
by porthole
Wed Mar 02, 2016 2:34 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: MIGHTY SHIPS Episode on the EMMA MAERSK
Replies: 5
Views: 5237

Re: MIGHTY SHIPS Episode on the EMMA MAERSK

Mo-mighteyer mighty ships: LONG URL

The Benjamin Franklin would have been the largest in the world, but now a ship carrying 19,200 standard containers is in operation, and 21,000 TEU container ships are already in production.
by porthole
Wed Mar 02, 2016 1:38 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

I don't think you are.

It is the same with the HDS Gen3 - until you put a Navionics card in.
The Navionics is my preference, the charting is much clearer among other things.
by porthole
Tue Mar 01, 2016 9:23 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: USCG Response Boat Capsizes During Rescue
Replies: 21
Views: 20994

Re: USCG Response Boat Capsizes During Rescue

Another view of the 25 with one of my buddies towing it in, before they were intercepted by Nassau County
by porthole
Tue Mar 01, 2016 9:17 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use
Replies: 115
Views: 159459

Re: Lowrance HDS Gen3: Installation, Interfacing Tips, and Use

I've decided on a bit of a changeup. I was using a Northstar 952 alongside my HDS Gen3. I have future plans to add the 4G RADAR and the more that I thought about it the more I was not liking the idea of trying to cram so much onto a 7" screen. Chart, RADAR, sounder (up to 3 types) and pilot con...
by porthole
Tue Mar 01, 2016 9:06 pm
Forum: SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL
Topic: Lowrance HOOK Series
Replies: 21
Views: 18430

Re: Lowrance HOOK Series

Well I ordered one of these to fill a hole in the dash of my 1997 17 Outrage.
Don't know if I will get to sea trial it, but should be able to at least do a side by side compare to a HDS Gen3
by porthole
Tue Mar 01, 2016 8:25 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Platform for Outrage 25 Center Console
Replies: 4
Views: 3689

Re: Platform for Outrage 25 Center Console

Jim Gibson's Boston Whaler 1992 19' Outrage II boat has a pretty good example of a filler platform. http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/1992%20Outrage%20II%201_48%20copy_zpsrrri1ncc.jpg http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l173/porthole2/Boats/1992%20Outrage%20II%201_49%20copy_zps71v...
by porthole
Tue Mar 01, 2016 3:03 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: USCG Response Boat Capsizes During Rescue
Replies: 21
Views: 20994

Re: USCG Response Boat Capsizes During Rescue

Those 25 Safe boats are an example, in my opinion, of some government waste. They [had a cost of a quarter-million-dollars or more] each when new, with an operational life span of about 10 years. There have been quite a few already taken out of service and re-purposed through the the government's re...