Catalina 350 International Association

I was hoisted up the mast of my 2005 C350 in order to perform an inspection and repair the windex. The top of the GPS antenna was found completely missing with the electronics exposed and rusted. I did notice a single coaxial connection. I’ll respectfully request information on the original 2005 C350 GPS Antenna part number and suitable form, fit, function replacements if that original part is now obsolete.

Appreciated (in advance),

Dave
C350 H327

Keep in mind the GPS satellites is 10,900 miles above you. Saving 55 feet in distance doesn’t buy you anything. I mounted my antenna just above the Bimini. On my previous C28, I surface mounted it on the rear coming and never had an issue. I’ve seen several mounted to the stern rail. Mount the antenna in a convenient place. If you’re concerned about reception, temporarily fix it in place in a desirable location and test before doing a permanent install. The reduction in signal loss caused by the long antenna run likely makes up for the 50 foot additional distance to the satellite.

I didn’t quite answer your question. What is your antenna connected to? Chart plotter? Radio? Discrete GPS?
If you have the manual, they may have a part number for the GPS. You might find a manual online as well. Just save yourself some headaches and don’t put it on the top of the mast.

My B&G Vulcan 9 chart plotter documentation indicated it has its own internal GPS antenna (I’ll double check that). For some reason, the AIS requires a GPS signal controlled from autopilot circuit activation. I really should have disconnected the coax while up the mast to determine if this is the AIS/AP GPS source. I’m also attempting to contact Catalina to identify a form/fit/function replacement to minimize additional effort (and sail).

Thanks,
Dave

If this is the VHF radio antenna, do NOT broadcast without an antenna.

And, located at the top of the mast, that is the most likely purpose.

When I originally identified the mast top antenna cover missing, I thought it may have been GPS antenna - but now believe it’s a Triax UFO antenna supporting UHF/VHF/FM TV signals. Triax UFO antenna (part number 109680) was likely analog in 2005.

Once I confirm my guess (feedback appreciated), I’ll need to plan steps to remove the antenna and attach a sealed cover plate to prevent water intrusion into the top of the mast.

Photo attached:

That definitely looks like a TV antenna to me.

Agreed. Most likely a TV Antenna. It looks like the one we have on our boat (2007). Ours no longer works or there is a bad connection somewhere. We purchased an antenna from WalMart that we just lay on the cabin top near the traveler and get acceptable reception in most areas.

Yup, your picture confirms it is the TV antenna.