Garmin GPS antenna

[bistro]

I have a Garmin 178C sounder, comb. ff and GPS with an exterior antenna. Two problems, the wire is too long and also the bayonet fitting where the antenna fastens on the sounder is loose, so I must duct tape it so it stays tight. Can I shorten the wire and install a new fitting on the wire, and if so, where to buy? If not, what is the solution?

[skunkedagain]

I have a Garmin 178C sounder, comb. ff and GPS with an exterior antenna. Two problems, the wire is too long and also the bayonet fitting where the antenna fastens on the sounder is loose, so I must duct tape it so it stays tight. Can I shorten the wire and install a new fitting on the wire, and if so, where to buy? If not, what is the solution?

The fitting on the unit will have to be tightened inside.

You can probably shorten the antenna cable with no ill effect. What kind of connector is it? A BNC? I believe it's a BNC. My Raymarine uses a TNC (which is a threaded NC connector) and I had to replace it this year, but I DO own a coaxial cable crimping set with all the proper dies. Do some research to see exactly what connector is used. Any marine electronics shop can professionally crimp on a new connector for about $10 or 15. Crimp connectors are available on eBay. You can buy a crappy BNC connector at Radio Shack.

BNCs are wide open along the sides, and salt water can get inside to corrode everything. When you get it all fixed, seal it up good. If you remove the unit from the boat, like I do, corrosion will be a bigger problem. Be prepared.

Edited November 8, 2010 by skunked_again

[cgmiller]

you can cut the garmin cable down. Westmarine sells a centerpin crimp on connector. They are about 10 bucks each....I just bought 5 of them as I moved 2 garmin units to a new boat and I had to cut the cables to get them out of mt t-top......