Much has happened since my last update. 
But on this update, my dilemma has been with the radar arch. Sundance was originally fitted with a hinged radar arch which also supports the vhf aerial, the Navtex aerial, the navigation lights, header sensors, the radar scanner and is also integral to the cover over the upper helm station.
The problem with the arch is that although it will fold down, the arch is very heavy and it would not be feasible to lower and raise the arch each time we passed under a fixed bridge.
The dilemma is whether to keep the arch and modify it or construct a new folding mast. Not only is the arch is very heavy it also restricts the stern deck area making moving from the helm to the side decks, also the height of the folded arch is to high to get under the lowest bridges which we expect to pass under.
We have been considering having a mast made which will support everything on the arch and will fold. The advantage of the mast would be once lowered could be kept lowered while on the inland waterways and would not impinge on movement on the stern deck and side decks. The problem with the mast is the significant disruption it will cause to fit the mast which will involve rewiring all the cabling from the arch and removing the head-lining in the saloon, removal of the arch and constructing a new cover frame and designing a new cover.
At the time of writing I have decided that the best way forward would be th
e disruption of constructing a new mast. The mast will be in two sections. The lower section is in three inch stainless steel which will have a bracket to support the new radar scanner and sound horn. This section has been already constructed together with mast hinge tabernacle.
There will be a cross tree which will support aerials, deck lights and cord for flags. The upper tubing, yet to be constructed will support navigation lights and heading sensors for the auto pilot and radar heading.
All this is very exciting and am looking forward to getting is all working. As I undertake the works I will post my effort as I go along.
My next blog will look at replacement of my house batteries.
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