Seafarer Angle at Headway Speed

[Seafarer228_G]

I'm mounting a radar arch on my 1994 Seafarer 228g and from what I read I want the center of the radar to be level with the horizon when the the boat is at headway speed which often means tilting the radar down ~4 degrees. I plan to use the radar to navigate in the dark, fog, and to look for birds while cruising out to fishing spots which is usually at 24 MPH. Unfortunately, I have no sense for what angle the boat is at while underway. Does anyone have a sense for the angle of the boat at headway speed or advice for what angle to mount the radar arch?

I could mount the radar arch level or slightly angled down at 4° and then shim the radar to get the angle I want but would like the arch mounted close to the correct angle if possible. I'm sure it will take additional testing once the boat is in the water but I won't be able to get the boat in the water for a few more weeks and want to get the arch installed in the meantime.

 

[Halfhitch]

Install an inclinometer app on your smartphone and you can easily figure out what you need. It's free.

 

[wspitler]

Research the vertical beam width of the radar you will install. That will give you an idea of how critical the angle really is. For example the Garmin Fantoms have a 25 degree vertical beam width. A few degrees is inconsequential.

 

[Ky Grady]

My Simrad Halo 24 vertical beam is 22°. I have mine mounted on a Battlewagon pedestal mount with 4° down angle. When underway, I'm pretty flat with the angle of the boat.

 

[DennisG01]

I would install your arch so it's parallel with the cockpit floor. Then shim the radar as needed.

 

[Beyond A Wake]

If you have an iPhone you do have an inclinometer on it. Place it flat on surface and you get a reading. Youll find it under utilities / tools together with "measure " you have the "level"
AS others have said the vertical beam is quite broad so it should not be a problem except for short range viewing.

H