VHF Radios - Fuel/water separators

[Erik]

I know that this topic has been discussed before, but I didn't pay attention like I should have the first time. I am going to start rigging my new 1900 Pro-V tonight and will be installing the VHF radio I took off my old boat. My question is; How far apart should the antenna and radio be from each other? Also, how far should it be from other electronics? I think I am going to be putting it in the starboard side storage compartment in the back, while my Pinpoint 7520 and Lowrance 1600 will be mounted in the port-side electronics compartment. This should be O.K., shouldn't it?

My second question is; Can I install a fuel/water separator with a 100hp Yamaha 4-stroke? I will ask my dealer too, but I always like to get a second and third opinion.

Thanks for the advice.
Erik

[Roscoe]

Although I'm not real knowledgable on the subject of radios, the Walleye in-sider magazine had a good article answering the questions you are asking. I believe it was the January/February issue. If you don't have access to a copy, email me and I would be more than happy to either fax you a copy or send one via email. Good Luck.

[Robertp]

The recommended seperation between antenna and radio, as well as other electronics is 3'. I have not had any problem with the radio closer to the antenna but that is the recommendation. I have heard several instances where people blow GPS fuses when the radio antenna is too close to the GPS and the mic is keyed. So I'd probably try to stick with the 3' seperation. As for a seperator, to the best of my knowledge, you can, and many say should, put one any fuel line to any motor.