Navigation & Communications
Navigation and communication is a big topic. This page provides a broad overview. A number of sub pages provide details on various topics. The following is a list of sub pages.
- Navigation Instruments
- This page describes the plan to replace all of the navigation instruments.
- Steering Pedestal Changes
- This page currently covers steering pedestal changes and the addition of an instrument pod on the pedestal bars.
- VHF, SSB, AIS and Satelite Communication
- This page describes options to improve communications particularly when off short. Traditional VHF & SSB are discussed. AIS is discussed. Satelite communication for Internet connectivity and mobile phone over Internet are discussed. No concrete plan exists at this point.
- Radar Replacement
- This page describes the selection and installation of a replacement radar unit.
- Autopilot Selection and Installation
- The autopilots page discusses selection of an autopilot but does not yet cover installation.
Navigation Instruments
The instruments on board will include, speed, depth, water temperature, GPS, wind speed and wind direction. AIS and marine radio are discussed elsewhere (see VHF, SSB, AIS and Satelite Communication. Radar is also discussed elsewhere (see Radar Replacement. The data from all of these instruments will be displayed on a multifunction display (aka chartplotter) on the steering pedestal bars and possibly a second chartplotter at the navigation station and possibly individual small displays in the cockpit. An electric autopilot will be used but that is discussed elsewhere (see Autopilot Selection and Installation.
Steering Pedestal Changes
The original pedestal with its long throttle and shift levers and conspicuously large round speed and depth gauges had a distinctly retro look to it. The look was reminiscent of an old science fiction spaceship bridge and would look right at home as a prop in a Flash Gordan movie.
With no need for a throttle and shift lever and with the age of the gauges (likely analog since both had gain potentiometers on the back), the section above the steering portion of the pedestal and below the compass had to be removed. A new support for the pedestal bars was needed, therefore new bars. New instruments were needed.
Some of the work described here is partially completed. When complete work will be described in completed work web page.
VHF, SSB, AIS and Satelite Communication
Plans are to replace all of the original communication equipment, except perhaps the marine VHF. A VHF with ability to send and receive and display non-distress DSC may be purchased. AIS will be installed. Satellite communication will include Iridium Go, possibly Garmin inReach, and possibly Space-X Starlink. There are no plans to install SSB or carry EPIRB.
Radar Replacement
The old radar was removed in 2020 and a new radar purchased. The new radar has yet to be installed.
Autopilot Selection and Installation
This Mariner 36 once had an electric belt driven wheel pilot. It failed and was not replace by a prior owner. The pulley on the ships wheel was easily removed, plus the bracket where the wheel pilot had been mounted. This will later be replaced with a linear electric quadrant mounted autopilot. An emergency tiller should also be purchased if possible or built.