SSB installation problems

[Phil23]

Deciding to reinstall an SSB transceiver and counterpoise has become a job I am starting to regret.
I have a Kenwood TRC-70 plus a KISS Ground/Counterpoise and SG-230 Smartuner, I have endeavored to get advise from SGC in Seattle but have no reply.


My problem is:


The KISS Counterpoise can be mounted no more than 4 feet from the ATU/Coupler so the unit needs to be mounted in a storage locker in my saloon.


My whip antenna is mounted on top of my wheelhouse roof.
I am lead to believe a tuner should be right up close to the antenna base/connection.


Here lies my issue, it is aprox. 8 feet from the mounting position of the SGC-230 to my antenna base via internal cavities , am I on a Hiding To Nowhere or is there a solution.
I believe if equipment is installed in the vessel it MUST be operable or get rid of it!!
I am primarily installing the ssb for late night listening as I am a chronic insomniac so at the push to receive only while not optimum would be acceptable.


Is there a solution to my distancing situation apart from hauling it all out.

 

[MYTraveler]

Explore mounting the counterpoise a greater distance from the AT. In my case, the AT, which is ICOM, is mounted in the flybridge brow about 4' from the antenna. I don't have a KISS counterpoise but instead have a conventional copper band mostly in the engine room, 25 - 30 feet away. It works fine.

You might double check the 4' requirement -- it makes more sense that the AT be very near the antenna than that it be near the counterpoise.

 

[Phil23]

Thank you for your reply, unfortunately the 4 foot specification is critical to its correct operation. I guess I am beaten!!

 

[Phil23]

I am rethinking my installation and guess I need to ditch the KISS Counterpoise. What is the maximum distance an ATU/Antenna Controller can be from the antenna base/connection

 

[HTurner]

I am rethinking my installation and guess I need to ditch the KISS Counterpoise. What is the maximum distance an ATU/Antenna Controller can be from the antenna base/connection

That single lead from antenna to tuner becomes part of the "tuned" antenna. Connect it up, it will work.

 

[Phil23]

OK so I have installed everything as originally planned I can hear the antenna coupler working/seeking and I have static at the transceiver but no reception I would presume this may be due to daylight hours plus being on the marina with masts all around me Would my assumption be correct

 

[fgarriso]

Could be.
Do you know what frequency your on?
Try changing channels.
Some noise is better than no noise.
See if you can find another boater with a SSB and get him to transmit to you

 

[diver dave]

If you cant hear the time standard on 5, 10, or 15MHz, something is likely wrong.