VHF radio problem

[Bad Habit]

 I have a Standard Horizon VHF radio that I can't seem to get decent reception on. When boats around me are getting lots of radio chat I'm not getting anything unless the transmission is VERY close. I've tried isolating the radio on it's own battery, different antenna, noise ferret on the power cord of the radio and a few other things I can't even remember now. I've always left the antenna cord the original length and coiled it up. It's on the same side as the radio. Should I move it?  Should it be cut to a shorter length if possible? Is there a certain antenna I should be using to match the radio? I have not tried a noise reducer on the alternator either. Is that an option that might work? I've been chasing this problem for a while now and any help would be appreciated.

 

 Thanks, Rick

[lost a lure]

Buy a Shakespeare ART-3 and test the radio and antenna


Sent from my SM-G950U using Lake Ontario United mobile app

[whaler1]

I just bought a new Icom, very impressed so far.

[L&M]

Try another radio if you can before you break the bank on things that you possibly don't need or need to do. Just because it says Standard Horizon doesn't mean there's not a bad one or two out there  

[bottom-feeder]

i assume you know this but there is a high/low power button on those.....top left button if memory serves right

[bottom-feeder]

if your the bad habit boat I see around mexico bay.....your welcome to hook my new one up on yours to see if its better

[Bad Habit]

Thanks Bottom feeder but I’m out Irondiquoit bay. I did know about the hi/low button but thought that was only for transmitting. My problem is recieving. 

[bottom-feeder]

shot in the dark but check the ground wire

[garrymny]

It could be the receiver is defective, or the antenna or antenna cable. Did you adjust the squelch? It controls receiver sensitivity.

Sent from my moto z3 using Lake Ontario United mobile app

[GAMBLER]

I had the same issue and it was the connector on the antenna.  I bought a new on and soldered it on and I was back in the game. 

[Bad Habit]

  I replaced my 30 year old antenna with a new Shakespear which means I also soldered on a new connector. I also added a ground wire to the chassis of the radio. It seems to be working better so I have my fingers crossed one of those was the problem.