Let’s Talk About Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount
The Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount is more than just an accessory; it’s a critical piece of equipment for serious boaters. Scanstrut, a well-known name in marine accessories, has designed this mount to ensure optimal radar performance, regardless of sea conditions. The key feature, of course, is its self-leveling capability, promising a stable radar picture even when the boat is subjected to significant roll and pitch.
Having spent years navigating challenging waters, I’ve experienced firsthand the frustration of unreliable radar signals during rough seas. Target acquisition becomes difficult, and navigating through congested areas can quickly become dangerous. I needed a solution that could maintain a consistent radar horizon, improving my overall situational awareness and safety at sea.
The Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount arrived well-packaged and immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The aluminum frame felt solid and durable, promising resistance to the harsh marine environment. Compared to cheaper, fixed radar mounts, the Scanstrut offered a clear advantage in terms of build quality and functionality.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The price tag is certainly higher than a standard mount, but the potential benefits of improved radar performance seemed worth the investment. I was eager to get it installed and test it in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount on my 38-foot sailboat, placing it on the mast as recommended. My first sea trial was a coastal passage known for unpredictable swells and choppy conditions. The radar unit was a Furuno 1834, one of the compatible units listed for the mount.
Immediately, I noticed a significant improvement in the radar display. Even as the boat rolled in the swells, the radar picture remained remarkably stable, keeping the horizon level. This made identifying targets much easier, especially smaller vessels and channel markers that previously disappeared in the clutter.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a trip through the notoriously rough Gulf Stream, the Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount has proven its worth. There are no signs of wear or tear on the aluminum frame despite constant exposure to salt spray and UV radiation. Regular cleaning with fresh water is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Compared to my previous experience with a fixed radar mount, the Scanstrut is a game-changer. The improved radar picture provides a much higher level of confidence during night passages and in poor visibility. It’s undoubtedly one of the best upgrades I’ve made to my boat’s navigation system.
Breaking Down the Features of Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Scanstrut is a reputable company known for high-quality marine accessories. They specialize in robust and reliable solutions for challenging maritime environments.
- Compatible Units: The mount is designed for a range of radar units, including Furuno 1623/1715/1824/1724/1734/1832/1834/NavNet, Lowrance LRA-1800, Northstar M series/8000i (18″ 2kW), and Simrad NX40/45 (18″ 2kW). This broad compatibility makes it a versatile choice for many boaters.
- Fabric/Material: The mount is constructed from aluminum, providing a strong and lightweight structure. The aluminum is finished in black, offering good corrosion resistance and a sleek aesthetic.
- Color: Black. The black color blends well with most mast colors and radar units.
- Construction: Made of Aluminum. This ensures high strength and corrosion resistance in the marine environment.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the mount’s performance and longevity. The aluminum construction guarantees durability, while the broad compatibility ensures it works with a variety of radar units. The self-leveling feature, powered by the hydraulic damping system, is paramount for maintaining a stable radar picture.
Performance & Functionality
The Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount excels at its primary job: keeping the radar level with the horizon. The hydraulic damping system effectively eliminates small oscillations, preventing blurry or distorted radar images. It reacts quickly to larger changes in heel angle, maintaining a consistent and reliable radar picture in rough seas.
The main strength is the effectiveness of the self-leveling mechanism. However, it is important to ensure proper installation and periodic inspection of the hydraulic system. The mount is designed to handle significant heel angles, but extreme conditions could potentially exceed its capabilities.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a robust aluminum construction that feels solid and well-engineered. While not lightweight, the weight is appropriate for the intended purpose, contributing to the overall stability of the system. The black finish is aesthetically pleasing and helps to protect against corrosion.
The design is straightforward, and installation is relatively simple for anyone with basic mechanical skills. However, the instructions could be more detailed, and it’s crucial to ensure all connections are properly tightened to prevent issues down the line.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and black finish suggest a long lifespan, even in harsh marine conditions. Regular cleaning with fresh water and occasional inspection of the hydraulic system are recommended. With proper care, the Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount should last for many years.
Repairing the hydraulic system might require specialized knowledge or professional assistance. Fortunately, Scanstrut offers excellent customer support and replacement parts are readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s primarily a mounting solution. However, various cable management options are available to ensure a clean and organized installation.
It’s fully compatible with the radar units it’s designed for, but there are limited customization options beyond that. The focus is on providing a stable and reliable platform for the radar unit itself.
Pros and Cons of Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount
Pros
- Significantly improves radar performance in rough seas. The self-leveling feature keeps the radar horizon stable, improving target acquisition and situational awareness.
- High-quality aluminum construction ensures durability and corrosion resistance. The robust build quality ensures a long lifespan, even in harsh marine environments.
- Broad compatibility with popular radar units. This makes it a versatile choice for many boaters, regardless of their radar system.
- Hydraulic damping system effectively eliminates oscillations and prevents blurry radar images. The smooth and responsive leveling mechanism provides a clear and reliable radar picture.
- Scanstrut is a well-respected brand with excellent customer support. This provides peace of mind and ensures assistance is available if needed.
Cons
- The price is significantly higher than fixed radar mounts. This can be a barrier for some boaters, but the improved performance justifies the cost for serious navigators.
- Installation requires some mechanical skill and attention to detail. The instructions could be more detailed, potentially leading to installation errors.
Who Should Buy Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount?
The Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount is perfect for serious sailors, power boaters, and professional mariners who frequently navigate in challenging sea conditions. Those who rely heavily on radar for navigation, especially during night passages or in poor visibility, will benefit the most. It is also a great choice for anyone who wants to upgrade their boat’s safety and situational awareness.
This product might not be necessary for recreational boaters who primarily operate in calm waters or only use radar occasionally. A simple, fixed radar mount might suffice for their needs.
A must-have accessory is high-quality marine-grade cable and connectors to ensure reliable data and power transmission to the radar unit. Regularly inspecting and maintaining the hydraulic system is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount
The Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about marine navigation. Its ability to maintain a stable radar horizon in rough seas significantly improves safety and situational awareness.
While the price is higher than basic radar mounts, the improved performance and build quality justify the cost. The enhanced reliability and precision it provides are well worth it.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Scanstrut LMM-2 Self Leveling Radar Mount to anyone looking to upgrade their boat’s radar system. If you value safety, reliability, and performance, this is the radar mount to buy.