Length of radar cable

[clyst]

Iv dropped the head lining in the saloon only to discovered a long snaking radar cable . Not only is the weight considerable it seems an excessive length . ...... question .... can I reduce the length or is it calibrated and necessary to the operation of the system ? ...... its an elderly Furuno unit .

 

[earlybird]

The cable can be shortened with no ill effect, but it is multi-core including at least one co-ax core, so the job needs care.
TBH, I can'treadily see that the weight saved will be significant in the vast majority of boats.

 

[oldgit]

The cable can be shortened with no ill effect, but it is multi-core including at least one co-ax core, so the job needs care.

Unless you are good with a soldering iron the 19 or 20 + wires and braid in there might prove challenging, best left alone ?
Cutting out 10 ft or so probably only amounts to the weight of a gallon of water ................ or beer.

 

[snowbird30ds]

so probably only amounts to the weight of a gallon of water ................ or beer.

 

[Boathook]

The cable for my Furuno 1623 is full length and excess coiled up in the bilge. I spoke to Furuno at the time, who said it could be cut but one of the cables (a video feed?) was very small and was the one that caused the majority of problems with the radar not working.
If the cable has been up there for quite a few years I would add some extra support to it, such cable ties stuck to the cabin top and leave it be.

 

[Supertramp]

You can separate the wires and put them through a multi block connector. Allows for separation to make mast removal easier.

 

[Neeves]

Some equipment suppliers offer shorter cables to over come the issue you, might, have.

If it all works, I'd leave well alone - unless you are a weight fanatic (like me - so no criticism) - and then you have to weigh up the costs, savings and risks against the benefits.

Jonathan

 

[rogerthebodger]

If its not broke don't fix it

 

[neil1967]

I removed an old Furano unit about 10 years ago, which including cutting the cable. No way would I want to solder that lot back together!

 

[clyst]

thanks for your replies chaps ...... I think i will leave as . Cheers