Newmar GS-2-50 Ground Strap 50'L X 2W

Why Superior Grounding Matters for Your Marine Electronics

In the demanding world of marine communication and navigation, noise interference can turn a clear signal into frustrating static. Whether you're running an SSB radio for long-range chats or sensitive transceivers for critical updates, a reliable ground path is your first line of defense against RF noise. Traditional wire grounds often fall short due to higher impedance, leading to poor performance and unreliable bonds. Enter high-quality copper grounding straps like this one—designed to deliver the low-resistance connection your setup craves, ensuring crystal-clear reception and powerful transmission even in rough seas.

Boat owners and marine technicians swear by these straps for their ability to handle high-frequency currents effortlessly. By creating a broad, flexible surface for electron flow, they minimize voltage drops and eliminate common issues like electrolysis around thru-hulls or intermittent radio chatter.

Key Features That Set It Apart

• Premium Copper Construction: Pure copper delivers unmatched conductivity, far superior to aluminum or steel alternatives, reducing resistance to mere milliohms for optimal RF performance.
• Ultra-Flexible Design: At just 0.01 inches thick, it bends and molds seamlessly to your vessel's curves, hull shapes, or tight engine compartments without kinking or cracking over time.
• Generous Dimensions: 50 feet long by 2 inches wide provides ample material for extensive grounding networks, from mastheads to bilge pumps, with plenty left for custom runs.
• Corrosion-Resistant Finish: Tinned surface repels salt air and moisture, extending lifespan in harsh marine environments where lesser straps would pit and fail.

Unlike stiff braided cables that resist routing or narrow straps with insufficient surface area, this design strikes the perfect balance of flexibility, durability, and efficiency—proven in real-world applications from offshore fishing boats to luxury yachts.

Versatile Applications Across Your Vessel

This grounding strap shines in multiple scenarios:

• SSB and HF Radio Grounding: Bonds antenna counterpoise to the hull or water, slashing noise floors by up to 20-30 dB for reliable global comms.
• Thru-Hull Bonding: Connects seacocks, strainers, and prop shafts to prevent galvanic corrosion and ensure a unified ground plane.
• Noise Suppression: Tames alternator whine, inverter hum, or LED lighting interference in GPS, VHF, or radar systems.
• Lightning Protection: Provides a low-impedance path for static discharge, safeguarding electronics during storms.

It's not just for pros—DIY boaters find it easy to integrate into existing systems, often transforming "good enough" setups into high-performance ones.

Pro Tips for Installation and Maintenance

Getting the most from your ground strap starts with proper prep:

1. Clean Connections: Scuff surfaces with a stainless brush and apply dielectric grease to terminals for oxidation-free bonds.
2. Secure Routing: Use nylon cable ties or adhesive mounts to avoid chafe; run straps as straight as possible to minimize inductance.
3. Multiple Bonds: For larger vessels, create a ground bus bar and spiderweb straps to all key points for even current distribution.
4. Testing: Use a milliohmmeter post-install to verify under 0.1 ohms resistance; monitor annually for loose fittings.

Regular inspections pay dividends— a quick tug test and visual check during haul-outs keeps your system hum-free season after season.

"Switched to this strap on my 42' trawler, and my SSB went from noisy to noise-free. Night-and-day difference!" – Experienced cruiser feedback.

FAQ