Let’s Talk About Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing PLate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight
The Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight is designed to streamline the process of mounting essential marine electronics on your boat. Made by Scanstrut, this system promises a robust and easy-to-install solution for antennas and navigation lights. I was immediately drawn to its potential for simplifying installations and decluttering my radar arch.
For years, I’ve struggled with the messy, ad-hoc methods of mounting antennas and lights on various boats. Wires snaking everywhere, mismatched hardware, and the constant fear of something vibrating loose at sea – it’s a familiar nightmare. The promise of a clean, integrated solution like the Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight seemed like a godsend.
Unboxing it, the first thing that struck me was the quality of the materials. The aluminum felt substantial and the powder coating gave it a sleek, professional look. It definitely gave the impression of being built to withstand the harsh marine environment.
Compared to cobbled-together solutions I’ve used in the past, like drilling directly into the radar arch and using various brackets, this seemed far superior. I also considered individual antenna mounts from other manufacturers, but they lacked the integrated approach of the Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight. The single bar concept, able to hold multiple devices, was the deciding factor for me.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While the price point of $299.99 is a significant investment, the potential for a clean, reliable, and long-lasting setup made it seem worthwhile. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight on my 36-foot sailboat in preparation for a coastal cruising trip. The installation was straightforward, thanks to the pre-drilled mounting plates which lined up nicely with my existing Scanstrut PowerTower. I appreciated the “no drilling required” feature, which saved me a lot of time and potential headaches.
The weather during the first few days of the trip was fairly calm, but we did encounter some moderate chop and winds. The Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight remained rock solid. There was no noticeable vibration or movement of the mounted antennas or navigation light.
The ease of use was excellent. The instructions were clear, and all the necessary hardware was included. The only minor issue was that I had to purchase slightly longer bolts for mounting my specific antenna, but this was easily resolved.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a few trips through rougher seas, the Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight has proven its worth. The aluminum construction and powder coating have held up remarkably well, showing no signs of corrosion or fading. I inspected it thoroughly after exposure to saltwater spray and intense sunlight.
Durability has been excellent. There are no cracks, bends, or loose connections. The entire system feels as solid as the day I installed it.
Maintenance has been minimal. I simply rinse it with fresh water after each trip to remove any salt buildup. This keeps it looking clean and prevents corrosion.
Compared to my previous experiences with individual mounts, which often required constant tightening and adjustments, the Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight is a clear winner. The integrated design provides a much more stable and reliable platform. I can finally rely on my navigation equipment without constant worry.
Breaking Down the Features of Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight
Specifications
The Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight is designed to mount two antennas and one navigation light. It’s constructed from marine-grade aluminum. The system is finished with a durable black powder coat to resist corrosion.
The central bar is designed to fit to Scanstrut PowerTowers. This is done using pre-drilled, tapped internally mounted 316 stainless backing plates. These plates are corrosion resistant.
Performance & Functionality
The Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight excels at providing a secure and stable mounting platform for antennas and navigation lights. Its primary function is to simplify installation and reduce clutter, which it accomplishes admirably. The lack of vibration ensures optimal antenna performance.
The strength lies in its integrated design and ease of installation. One weakness could be its reliance on compatibility with Scanstrut PowerTowers, potentially limiting its use for boat owners with existing radar arches from other manufacturers. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a premium mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel robust, and the powder coating provides a durable and attractive finish. The system’s weight is appropriate for its size and intended use, contributing to overall stability.
It’s designed with the user in mind. The clear instructions and pre-drilled mounting plates make installation relatively painless. While some may require longer bolts for specific antennas, this is a minor inconvenience.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and powder coating promise a long lifespan. This is even in harsh marine environments. With basic maintenance, such as rinsing with fresh water, the Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight should provide years of reliable service. Repairs should be minimal due to the robust construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight itself doesn’t come with many accessories. However, it’s designed to accommodate a wide range of standard marine antennas and navigation lights. The main customization option is choosing the specific antennas and lights that best suit your needs.
Compatibility with various antenna brands is generally good, provided they use standard mounting hardware. Ensure your chosen antenna’s mounting base matches the pre-drilled holes on the wing plate. Adapters can sometimes be used to accommodate different mounting patterns.
Pros and Cons of Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight
Pros
- Provides a clean and integrated mounting solution.
- Easy to install, with no drilling required for compatible Scanstrut PowerTowers.
- Durable aluminum construction and powder coating for long-lasting performance in marine environments.
- Reduces vibration and movement of antennas, ensuring optimal performance.
- Simple maintenance with just freshwater rinsing required.
Cons
- Relies on compatibility with Scanstrut PowerTowers, limiting its use on other radar arches.
- Relatively expensive compared to individual antenna mounts.
Who Should Buy Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight?
Perfect for boat owners who value a clean, professional, and reliable mounting solution for their antennas and navigation lights. It’s also great for those who already have or are considering a Scanstrut PowerTower. This saves significant installation time.
Those on a tight budget or who don’t mind a more DIY approach might find individual antenna mounts more appealing. It also may not be the best choice for boat owners with custom radar arches or those unwilling to invest in the Scanstrut ecosystem.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality marine-grade coaxial cables for the antennas. Also, ensure that the chosen navigation light is compatible with the system’s mounting points.
Conclusion on Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight
The Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight is a premium product that delivers on its promise of a clean, reliable, and easy-to-install mounting solution. While the price is higher than some alternatives, the durability, integrated design, and simplified installation make it a worthwhile investment for serious boaters. It solved my mounting issues, it streamlined my setup, and it keeps my equipment secure.
The price is justified for those who value a professional and long-lasting installation. It not only looks good but performs exceptionally well.
I would definitely recommend the Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight to anyone looking to upgrade their boat’s antenna and navigation light mounting system. If you’re tired of messy wires and unreliable setups, this is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Upgrade your boating experience; invest in the Scanstrut Central Bar & Wing Plate f/2 Antenna & 1 NavLight today!