HELP with x-mas list

[bandit86]

so I have a new (to me) 87 24ft bayliner ciera. I need all sorts of gadgets, it doesnt even have a vhf, though the guy said he'll throw one in. So now the big question, what should I ask for? <br /><br />Some ideas, new radio, Gps, fish/depth finder, radio or tv, whats the most important on the great lakes, whats a good model. I dont have a budget but dont want to push my luck. What should I ask for?<br /><br />Also, if anyone knows a good place to get used stuff from, let me know pls.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

On the Great Lakes???? I'd ask for a complete engine and drive-tune up, a VHF radio and antenna, fuel system cleaning, good compass/GPS with nav charts, and a depth finder. Then take a big water boating course. All of these are essential before you leave the marina.

 

[MRS]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

bandit, if you are going to do alot of fishing a gps combo depth finder would be sweet......

 

[DangerDan]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

GPS. if you going more than a couple miles offshore you'll need one. Compass doesn't do much good after trolling around all day in the haze or fog. You'll know the general direction back but without that visual fix where are you really? VHF and GPS are must have items

 

[Silvertip]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

I didn't mean either/or, I meant both GPS and compass. An electrical failure leaving you without the GPS and no compass means you have zero chance of finding land much less the marina. Compared to everything else, a compass is inexpensive back-up.

 

[JB]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

Some GPS units (The Garmin 276C comes to mind) will operate on internal battery power if the 12v supply fails. Just unplug the power cord and turn it back on. Nice insurance, but if you have no electrical power knowing where you are is not much help unless your VHF also has internal battery backup.<br /><br />Some people carry portable GPS and VHF units for just such an emergency. With a limited budget I might go for the portables first and add the "big" units later.

 

[bandit86]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

hey thanks guys, maybe a new vhf and gps is in order. Actually my compass is unreadable too, is there a good online place that everybody likes? Or someone here that would sell a good used unit they dont need?

 

[JB]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

Is there a good online place??!! <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/mall/

 

[bandit86]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

ok, what is a good combo unit? I dont mind spending a bit more if it covers all the essentials and saves space. If it would do all my gauges too, it would be sweet. <br /><br />Also, what gauges are good to have? Other then tach, fuel and what comes with an average boat?

 

[DangerDan]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

Wasn't arguing about the compass Upinsmoke just stating that it makes it tough to grab a visual fix with just a compass if your in haze or fog. I have both and actually used my GPS to dial in my compass. A GPS can give you great peace of mind when you can't see the coast and your out trolling all day. Knowing which way home whith the tracking ability is great comfort not to mention that second pass over the hot spots. <br />I picked up this unit for my boat last year for about $300. It was a steal for a color GPS and I dont think I'll ever find a comparable unit for the price. http://www.magellangps.com/en/news/releases/viewRelease.asp?id=225 <br />I cant find them any more and it was on clearance from a popular marine supply but I like it. It suits my needs and works great. I never wanted an all in one unit because I know the FF I plan to upgrade to does not come in a combo. Also if one has a problem you have to do without both until you have it repaired and get it back.<br /> As far as "good combo units" there are many and you will get many different replies on this. Hummingbird makes some great color models and they're graphics easy to read. There are many other good manufacturers out there though.

 

[bandit86]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

do I need a depth sounder if I have a fish finder? If I dont fish, do I need a fishfinder, or is that just a good idea to know what the bottom is like?<br /><br />I like this one, with all the bells and whistles like the externall antenna (just in cae) and the dual transducers. Dont know if I'll ever need it, just good to have I guess<br /> http://www.onlinemarine.com/cgi-loc...78c.htm?L+scstore+gztx4977ff342134+1134232809

 

[DangerDan]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

Yep, that'll look good under the tree for sure.

 

[MRS]

Re: HELP with x-mas list

bandit, if you do not fish you do not need the fish finder you can just get a unit that will show depth of water. The gps will be usefull for navagation in the dark or fog once you learn to use plus it is always good to have a compess when all else failes the compess will let you know what diection to go even at night. But do not set anything made of metal by the compess or it will give you a false reading. Plus a good pair of field glasses should always be on board. You will never buy everything that you need to put or want to put on your boat but hey that is part of the learning part of boating and fun just have fun and be safe.