Raymarine R28171 Long Arm Mast Head Only
Raymarine R28171 Long Arm Mast Head Only — Product description
Precision Wind Data for Smarter Sailing Decisions
Imagine threading the needle through a fleet during a regatta or adjusting sails perfectly in shifting gusts offshore. Accurate wind readings are the heartbeat of competitive and cruising sails alike. The Raymarine long arm masthead unit steps up as a reliable sensor, designed to deliver clear, turbulence-free wind speed and direction data right from the top of your mast.
Unlike standard short-arm designs that can get buffeted by mast-induced eddies, this extended arm positions the cups and vane farther out, capturing true apparent wind with minimal interference. Sailors praise its durability in harsh conditions, from bone-chilling Southern Ocean blasts to tropical squalls, making it a staple for offshore passages and weekend warriors alike.
Engineered for Real-World Marine Demands
- Extended Arm Design: Keeps sensors away from mast wake for readings up to 20% more precise in close-hauled scenarios.
- Robust Construction: UV-stabilized housing and corrosion-resistant materials withstand salt spray, UV exposure, and impacts from accidental boathooks.
- 3-Cup Anemometer: Proven low-friction bearings ensure smooth rotation and reliable speed measurements from zephyrs to Force 10 gales.
- Optical Wind Vane: Non-contact sensing eliminates wear, providing instantaneous direction shifts without lag.
- Compact Footprint: Easy mounting on standard 1-inch masthead fittings, blending seamlessly with sleek rig designs.
Streamlined Installation for Any Skill Level
Setting up this masthead unit transforms downtime into sailing time. Start by selecting a spot 12-18 inches above the masthead to clear spreaders and stays. Secure the base with marine-grade fasteners, route the cable down the mast using conduit for protection, and connect to your SeaTalk or NMEA network.
Pro tip: Align the vane parallel to the boat's centerline during calibration for spot-on zeroing. In under an hour, you'll have live data flowing to your instruments, with minimal tools required beyond a torque wrench and dielectric grease for watertight seals.
Quick Alignment Hacks
- Moor in calm conditions or use a steady heel to simulate loads.
- Cross-check with a handheld anemometer for validation.
- Secure excess cable in the bilge away from engine heat.
Seamless Integration and Long-Term Reliability
This unit pairs effortlessly with Raymarine's analog and digital wind displays, feeding data into multifunction navigators for tactical overlays like wind shifts and polar plots. It's a natural fit for evolving setups, supporting upgrades from legacy ST40/ST60 to modern i50/i70 series without full rewiring.
Keep it performing like new with simple upkeep: Annual freshwater rinses remove salt buildup, lubricate bearings sparingly with marine grease, and inspect cups for nicks after heavy weather. Many owners report decades of service, outlasting multiple rig refits.
Why Serious Sailors Rely on This Masthead
In a world of fleeting gadgets, this sensor stands out for its no-nonsense engineering. It empowers tacticians with data they trust—crucial when trimming for VMG or spotting lifts in a dying breeze. Casual cruisers appreciate the set-it-and-forget-it vibe, freeing them to enjoy horizons rather than fuss with finicky gear.
Backed by real feedback from circumnavigators and club racers, it excels where precision meets practicality, turning raw wind into winning edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the long arm design better than standard mastheads?
The extended arm positions wind cups and vane beyond the mast's turbulent airflow, delivering more accurate apparent wind data, especially upwind or in gusty conditions.
Is this masthead compatible with older Raymarine displays?
Yes, it integrates smoothly with ST40, ST50, ST60, i50, and i60 series via SeaTalk or analog connections, making it ideal for retrofits.
How do I calibrate the wind vane after installation?
Position the boat head-to-wind in steady conditions, align the vane fore-aft, and follow your display's calibration menu for zeroing—typically a quick 5-minute process.
What maintenance does it require in saltwater environments?
Rinse with fresh water seasonally, check bearings yearly, and apply light grease. Avoid high-pressure washes to protect seals.
Can it handle extreme weather like storms or icing?
Built tough with UV-resistant materials and sturdy cups, it withstands gales and light icing; remove ice buildup manually in prolonged freezes for best performance.
Does it provide true wind or just apparent wind?
It measures apparent wind directly; pair with a compass or GPS input on your display for true wind calculations.
What's the best mounting height on the mast?
Mount 12-24 inches above the masthead, clear of shrouds and antennas, to optimize airflow and visibility.
Raymarine R28171 long arm forward wind sensor is compatible with i60, ST60, ST290, ST70, i70* instruments. Features: Features include: wind speed and angle include...
SKU: NVN-1001344
MPN: R28171
UPC: 723193281710
Technical specifications
| Brand | Raymarine |
| Model | Raymarine R28171 Long Arm Mast Head Only |
| SKU / MFR# | 1001344 |
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