Best CB set-up: [Archive] - Expedition Portal

Scenic WonderRunner

11-17-2005, 08:56 PM

I've had my eye on this one for a while now.

I've been using my trusty old Johnson CB since 1977!.....maybe time for an upgrade>?!! ..........hehe

I like the fact that this MIDLAND has "Weather"......and "SSB" for more power and longer range.....but SSB only works with someone else who has it.

Very nice and compact unit.

I've seen them on eBay for about $161.

MIDLAND # 79-290

AM-USB/LSB-Weather
40 Channel CB w/ Side Band
120 channel operation (USB-AM-LSB)
7 channel US/3 channel Canadian weather receiver
Detachable control panel for added security
Black Matrix LCD display with choice of channel number or frequency readout
4 channel memory plus instant ch. 9
Feature packed! RF gain, mic gain, dual watch, fine/coarse and MORE
For more info please download our manual

http://www.midlandradio.com/comersus/store/catalog/79-290.jpg

I've had a FIRESTIK antenna (http://www.firestik.com/CatalogFrame.htm) since 1977! This thing has seen over 400,000 miles on an 18 wheeler and it's still kickin'....!!

FIRESTIK makes several "NO GROUND PLANE" antennas.

BUYING A RADIO
Compliments of Firestik® Antenna Company Technical Support Team

Copyright © 1996 Firestik® Antenna Company

THE RADIO PURCHASE

Over the years we have gravitated to simplicity. It stands to reason that the more features the radio has … the more problems you can have. Since the FCC regulates power output of production CB radios, what separates a $200 radio from a $70 radio is not much more than "bells and whistles". It is not uncommon for a person with an inexpensive radio and a thoughtfully installed and tuned antenna system to enjoy performance that far exceeds the fellow with the $200+ radio and a mediocre antenna or questionable antenna installation. Insofar as performance is concerned, it is the antenna that makes the difference … not the radio.

goodtimes

11-17-2005, 08:57 PM

4 watts is what you are limited to on the CB, Scott. going beyond that is pretty much useless anyway, as people will be able to hear you, but you won't hear them. VHF is a much better way to "reach out and touch someone".

Being limited to 4 watts really levels the playing field with CB radios. There isn't much heat generated, and they are all pretty reliable. If you stick with the major name brands, you really are just choosing which options you want (sideband, PA output, other bells and whistles).

Besides, you already know that it is all about antenna location, tuning, and length. The 1/4 wave antenna's are hard to beat, particularly with difficult ground planes (like on a jeep). This is what I use on my jeep. Since I have so much "jeep" next to my antenna (as opposed to below the antenna), getting the SWR under 2.5 was difficult with shorter antennas. With the 1/4 wave, I hang out about 1.1. (1.0 is as good as it gets...anything over 3.0 and you are inviting trouble for your radio). In case you didn't know, 95% of the antennas out there have the same 108" of wire in them, regardless of how tall the antenna is. On the shorter antenna's, the wire is simply wound around a fiberglass rod, or inside of a plastic housing.

The ground plane is the first thing to look at. The main mass of metal in your vehicle is the ground plane, for all intents and purposes. You want your antenna centered above this plane, with as little else up there as possible. If this is not possible, you want the antenna as high as you can get it, and definately at least 1/3 of it should be above the highest point of the vehicle. You can get away with having it lower if you move it farther away from obstructions (large masses of metal)....like Chris has done by moving it away from the cab of his truck towards the front bumper. But by not keeping the ground plane centered under the antenna, Chris gives up some performance. In the typical trail setting, you will never notice, but if you were talking to someone who is just on the edge of being out of range, you can see a difference. For your tacoma, I would put the antenna right square in the middle of the roof.

Next look at antenna types. Basically, pick whatever fits your application. I used a 108" (1/4 wavelength) stainless whip. This works great on the jeep because of the lack of anywhere to mount the antenna. I had a hard time getting the SWR down with the shorter antenna's. But, since you have a great place to mount one...I would use a magnetic base...something like a Wilson 500 or Wilson 1000. Very strong mount, removable, reliable, and not very expensive (at least the last time I bought one it wasn't). Oh yea, the Wilson 500 is black with a stainless whip....so no worries about chrome.

Last, look at tuning. Shoot for a SWR of less than 1.2. Not hard to achieve in a application like yours. Just remember, check the SWR on channel 1 and channel 40. If the SWR is lower on 1 than 40, your antenna is too long, if 40 is lower than 1, it is too short. (I always rembember "low, low, long", as in: lower SWR on the lower channel means the antenna is too long).

One final thing....be sure to give it clean power and a solid ground. Ground the chassis too.

goodtimes

11-17-2005, 09:05 PM

Branden Hoy is a pretty knowledgeable on CB's (BMAN on MUD). I have his cell # if you want it.

Brandon Hoy is a redneck hack who cant drive.

If you don't believe me, just look at his FJ40....what kind of self respecting man would put a coors light bottle opener on the back of a 40? And have you seen the roll cage in that thing?!?!?! Man, I'd be scared to drive that. As for his driving skills, ask him how he managed to get body damage in Box Canyon! Or get stuck between a pair of 4" tall rocks on Upper Ajax......besides, the guy makes rebar for a living....what does he know.

*disclaimer:since I can't use emoticons on this site.....and for those who don't know me, I'm being sarcastic. I've known Brandon for a number of years and have been 'wheeling with him quite a few times...but I still give him crap about that bottle opener!

pskhaat

11-17-2005, 09:12 PM

No expense? Really? :)

Antenna:
A really bad rule of thumb is the larger antenna, the better. A 27 MHz antenna will naturally perform well on a 108/109" antenna. You simply can't beat that size for performance. If you don't want a deadly whip smacking about, I would next consider a Amateur HF antenna. They can be readily had for about $19.95 at various ham radio outlets, they're about 7' tall, and need to be snipped to reduce the length slightly. When you start looking at antenna's shorter than that, then at 4W legal power, most anything will perform quite well. You have to `load' the antenna (make it appear bigger) by putting coils into it, any antenna with the coil as high on the antenna as possible will (more bad rule of thumb) perform better.

Mounts:
Always mount as high as possible on the flattest section of sheet metal as possible. This is generally the roof. You can't BEAT drilling in and using the right mount, it makes a big difference. Ham radio stores will carry a mount for 3/8" 24thread (for most CB antennas, including those mentioned above) that seals into a roof hold and has coax already built in. Nowadays you can get some pretty thin coax that doesn't do too badly. Mag mounts do well too, but will degrade over time as the paint and `junk' in-between accumulate over months.

Coax:
Get the shortest length you can. Some people will suggest getting a 9' or 18' length. Don't listen. Why? Because that length coax CAN compensate for a bad ground where you mount it. Funny that 9 & 18 are 1/4 and 1/2 CB wavelengths: they act as counterpoise. If you've got the mount down, you're cool, stick with the shortest coax you can as to avoid all power loss.

Radio:
You got me. I've been burned on the cheap stuff, and burned on the pricey CB's in the past. Maybe someone with a little more luck may want to chime in on this one. If you're really brave you can pick up a CB with Single Side Band that can be run at legal 12W instead of the full-band 4W. However, it requires that others in your party also have SSB CB.

Power:
Goes without saying, wire directly to the batter. I wire my Ham and other accessories to my deep-cycle marine auxilliary battery which is isolated (exceput during charge) to the rest of the vehicle, I have almost zero engine noise.

Now you may say, ``but YOU put use a shorter antenna and mount it on your bull bar you hypocrite'' and yes that's all true but you did say you wanted the best performance ;-)

Are you planning on coming down to the Valley for Ham classes?

MaddBaggins

11-17-2005, 09:16 PM

Brandon Hoy is a redneck hack who cant drive.

If you don't believe me, just look at his FJ40....what kind of self respecting man would put a coors light bottle opener on the back of a 40? And have you seen the roll cage in that thing?!?!?! Man, I'd be scared to drive that. As for his driving skills, ask him how he managed to get body damage in Box Canyon! Or get stuck between a pair of 4" tall rocks on Upper Ajax......besides, the guy makes rebar for a living....what does he know.

*disclaimer:since I can't use emoticons on this site.....and for those who don't know me, I'm being sarcastic. I've known Brandon for a number of years and have been 'wheeling with him quite a few times...but I still give him crap about that bottle opener!

LOL, sounds you you know Branden! He cracks me up. But I hadn't equated him with redneck. To me redneck is country music, copenhagen, Ford POS pick up, cowboy hat or ratty ball cap and Wranglers. That is NOT Branden.

pskhaat

11-17-2005, 09:22 PM

Brandon has...shall we say...a slightly different approach on CB equipment and performance. You may check twice about a Brandon-style setup if you publically show your vehicle.

Scenic WonderRunner

11-17-2005, 09:22 PM

If money is no object.........I would consider this one!

GALAXY DX 93T

10 Meter AM/FM/SSB Amateur Radio

A High Performance output circuit that uses one Toshiba 2SC2290 power transistor to generate 20 watts for AM/FM and 50 watts for SSB operation

http://www.dxzone.com/cgi-bin/dir/jump2.cgi?ID=7927 (http://)

http://www.maycomcomm.com/images/galaxy/mobile/DX93T.jpg

MOBILE CB ANTENNA 101~getting the shaft! (http://www.1stopelectronics.com/cb-antenna-101.htm)

pskhaat

11-17-2005, 09:24 PM

Remember that Scott's Taco is often on show though, the gray-area radios may not be the best to permanently mount?

GeoRoss

11-17-2005, 09:43 PM

Well, money was an object for me w/ the CB. I also didn't want permanent mounts either. I went with the Wilson 'lil wil'. It may not be as good as the 1000 or 5000, but I was happy with its performance this past weekend. I did sometimes have problems hearing people this weekend (wah-wah-wah-wah:)) but I don't know how much this was me or them. I could usually hear Chris very well. Ed said that he could always hear Chris and me very well (before his antenna tanked). Some problems may have been just the limitations of CB's.

I just placed the mag mount just behind the sunroof. I wacked it pretty good and didn't move it a bit. Not a bad antenna for ~$35 w/ cable. For the radio I went with a 'new' Uniden 510 XL Pro (in the box, never hooked up) for $27+$8 shipping from eBay. Nothing fancy, but I can easily take it out of the truck for theft protection.

Maybe I should have gone with the Wilson 1000, time will tell. I still need to tune the antenna also.

Ross

Ursidae69

11-17-2005, 10:12 PM

Hey Scott (Expeditions West),

Firestik has a great website with lots of technical articles.
http://www.firestik.com/Tech_Docs.htm

No expense? Really? :)

Coax:
Get the shortest length you can. Some people will suggest getting a 9' or 18' length. Don't listen. Why? Because that length coax CAN compensate for a bad ground where you mount it. Funny that 9 & 18 are 1/4 and 1/2 CB wavelengths: they act as counterpoise. If you've got the mount down, you're cool, stick with the shortest coax you can as to avoid all power loss.

Scott (pskhaat),

Over at Firestik they say:

Q Is the length of the coax cable important?
A We find that it is very important ... especially with high performance top-loaded antennas. Your safest bet is to use 18 feet (5.5 meters) coaxial leads on all of your CB installations.

Q I only needed 9 feet of coax to go from my radio to my antenna. How should I handle the excess?
A What ever you do, do not roll it into a small convenient coil. It will become an RF choke. If you cannot let it lie loose under a seat or in a headliner, wrap it into a yarn-like skein of about 12 to 16 inches, put a wire tie in the center and tuck it under your dash, seat, etc.

Why do you have different recommendations on the length?

Scott Brady

11-17-2005, 10:24 PM

Thanks so much everyone. Time for more research... I am leaning towards a through the roof mount with a long stainless whip.

Time to go look at radios.

pskhaat

11-17-2005, 10:28 PM

Why do you have different recommendations on the length?

Mostly because you have a lot of power loss and impedance mismatch potential in the coax during transmit. I'm pretty sure the 9/18 ft recommendations are to get vendors antenna's to tune the best and thus those lengths can give false positive readings. I don't think it's any conspiracy, just that a no-ground-plane antenna and marine installations (for instance) can use the coax as the radiating other quarter of the 1/2 wave.

I'm of the thought that if you've grounded (RF/AC grounded) your antenna, your feed line exact length should be the least of your worries and will more accurately represent the true state of the whole system when it's as short as possible.

You really can do a LOT of 4 watts, but 4 watts is pretty low, why risk it by making your effective radatiating power any less.

asteffes

11-17-2005, 10:35 PM

The most effective solution to your CB woes is for you and your travel mates to all get your Technician class amateur radio licenses and start using VHF/UHF gear. 2 meter or 440MHz ham gear will *blow away* any CB or FRS gear ever made. :ar15: :smilies27

awalter

11-17-2005, 11:36 PM

Scott,

I'm using the Wilson 1000 permanent mount antenna. It has an SWR reading of 1.1-1.2. I've got a mag mount firestick on my Scout, but it is a hassle with
low flying trees.

My CB is a Uniden SSB, I'll have to check on which model. It is 4-5 years old so probably not manufactured anymore. I would go with a SSB unit, as long as 1 other in the group your travelling with has sideband you can extend your range significantly.

OTHERWISE GET THAT HAM LICENSE!

flyingwil

11-18-2005, 01:56 AM

GT has good input. With Most Cb's being limited to 4 Watts, the playing field is pretty equal. SO now the next up to bat is size and weight. In the CB selection I would go with a reputable name brand. I had my selection narrowed down to two smaller units that would fit in my ash tray location, The Uniden, Radio Shack, and the Cobra. I posted over at TTORA, and the general inputs was the Uniden for reliability, and I ended up with that.

The next most important part is your antenna, this includes your coax. A cheap radio and good coax, and antenna will perform well. Firestik.com has an excellent FAQ section that will answer everything you need to know about the coax, antenna and ground planes. A roof mount in the center of the roof is most ideal. For this I would go with a Wilson mount, and a whip.

I have seen quite a few fiberglass antenna setup fail over washboards and whoops, and would steer clear of them for that reason. (Ted knows about this... his mount stripped on the way home out of crown king, and our trail fix was just just good enough.)

Scott, there is a Cobra Unit, that has everything in the Mic, that might be best for your set up to mitigate cluttering in your rear space.
http://www.cobra.com/shop_image/product/98c5469dd94336b026659121ef98ebb1.jpg

I then would go with a Wilson 5000 Roof mount
http://www.wilsonantenna.com/5000RTlg.jpg

And some good co-Phase Coax.
http://www.wilsonantenna.com/cophase.jpg

Good luck!

Wil

PS. WaH WAH WaAaAh wahhha WWWAaaaAh!

Ursidae69

11-18-2005, 02:11 AM

PS. WaH WAH WaAaAh wahhha WWWAaaaAh!

LMAO at Will :xxrotflma

To those that were not there, Will just demonstrated exactly what Scott sounded like on the CB when he would try to talk out at the EP rally. :shakin:

asteffes

11-18-2005, 02:44 AM

While I understand the beneficial electrical properties of roof mounts, I can't see drilling a hole in the middle of the cab for, well, anything. The potential for leaks and roof damage should the antenna get caught on something is just too great IMO. I would absolutely go with a magnet mount before I permanently modified the roof.

offroad_nomad

11-18-2005, 03:18 AM

Scott,
Do you still have an ARB front bumper? If so, you can get an ARB CB Bracket to mount your antenna to th bumper:
http://store1.yimg.com/I/cruiserconnection_1871_3162700

I added a Push-n-Twist Quick Disconnector:
http://store1.yimg.com/I/cruiserconnection_1871_3027077

and a SS Spring:
http://store1.yimg.com/I/cruiserconnection_1871_3056696

check out: http://www.4by4connection.com/cbaccessories.html

I'm running a similar set-up on my TJM, great reception, no problems yet. I also have the Cobra 75 WX ST (http://www.4by4connection.com/75wxst.html) which I really like.

awalter

11-18-2005, 02:46 PM

I have had roof mounted antennas for both CB & 2-meter for many years without any problems. The hassle of dealing with mag-mounts with low hanging obstacles IMO ain't worth it, I've been there.

Scott,
My Uniden SSB model is PC122XL.

Scott Brady

11-18-2005, 02:51 PM

Al,

Do you know the model of you antenna and through the roof mount? I like your set-up

awalter

11-18-2005, 03:04 PM

Al,

Do you know the model of you antenna and through the roof mount? I like your set-up

The CB antenna is a Wilson 1000 roof mount kit.

The 2-meter is a Larson **** roof mount kit, I'll have to get back to you on model.

Both kits come complete with coax & removable whips.

I have the coax routed down the door posts, one on each side, with about 16" between antenna bases front to rear mounted centered (so,so) on the roof.

BajaTaco

11-18-2005, 03:31 PM

Scott, if you want a roof mount setup - I would just copy Al's. He has a Tacoma and we know it works really good. I agree about not using a mag-mount. For the kind of stuff we do, I have seen way too many of them fall off, not to mention the cruddies after years of being directly on the painted roof. For the whip, definitely stay away from the ridgid fiberglass stuff. Again, I would just copy Al.

For the radio, I would keep it fairly simple and lightweight. Maybe an RF gain adjustment would be nice. No need for weather bands as you already will have that on your 2M radio. FWIW, I have heard quite a few complaints of the hand-held cobras having troubles with the buttons.

Also, FWIW - I did follow the firestik advice on the coax length and everyone seems to have good results hearing me transmit as has been mentioned not just on the last trip, but most of the trips that I go on. I'm not saying that a shorter length won't work (I don't know) but just saying that mine does work good.

Ursidae69

11-18-2005, 03:40 PM

I think you're getting good advice from everyone. The most important thing is the antenna and the middle of the roof is the very best. I opted for fender mount and it shows. I have the cobra 75 wx st. For having everything all in one it is nice, takes less space, but personally I don't like it. It's too big for my hand and I have big hands, the buttons are not easy to push and the sound sucks unless it happens to be pointing right at your face. In my old truck I had a Uniden Pro520xl, it was small and worked great with the external speaker I had. That's another thing, you might want to get an external speaker. Most CBs don't have forward facing internal speakers like the ICOM V8000 does. Even the ICOM radio isn't really loud enough for me, I might get an external speaker someday again.

Scenic WonderRunner

11-18-2005, 04:03 PM

I agree about not using a fiberglass antenna on the roof. I see these normally used on bumpers or fenders. I currently use a "Cobra" 4' mag mount whip centered on my roof just behind my sunroof. It has never popped off from a tree, branch....or. I guess it must have a really strong magnet.

If I were switching to a through the roof type.........I would consider the one below from Firestik (http://www.firestik.com/CatalogFrame.htm) (once at their website, look to the left and click on the "Venice"). I also like the fact the you can tilt the antenna down for low clearance driving!

http://www.walcottcb.com/catalog/images/E36.jpg

http://www.walcottcb.com/catalog/images/E36_A.jpg

"VENICE" CB ANTENNA KIT
5/8 WAVE BASE-LOAD WITH FOLD-DOWN MOUNT
Bandwidth: 910 khz Power Rating: 150 watts

Model: E36 MSRP*: $43.99
*MSRP (Manufactures Suggested Retail Price) in U.S. Dollars

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It took Firestik® over two years of work to bring this antenna to America. You may have seen or used inexpensive base loaded antennas that were imported from the Pacific Rim countries but you are about to be exposed to an antenna like you've never seen before. Throughout the years radio enthusiasts have expected Firestik® to offer them high quality and innovative products. This new antenna will prove once again that Firestik® aims to please their customers. The "Venice" antenna is a joint effort between Firestik® and Italy's largest, premier antenna manufacture. You probably know the Itailians for their exotic sports cars, unsurpassed high quality shotguns or their exquisitely designed fine clothes. Now you are going to know them for their antennas. By combining Italian workmanship and design with Firestiks® knowledge of American antenna standards we are able to offer you an antenna that has exceptional performance, spectacular looks, and unique mechanical features. If that is what you've been looking for ... then you will want to have this antenna on your vehicle!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The "Venice" is a marvelous 5/8's wave base loaded CB antenna. The over-all length of the antenna is 36" (91.4cm). The "Venice" has a p.e.p. wattage rating of 150 watts. It also offers a sub-2.0:1 SWR bandwidth that exceeds 900 KHz (more than double the legal CB radio bandwidth)! The antenna can be mounted to any mount or surface that can accomodate its 1.5" (38mm) base diameter. The mounting base is designed to use the common American standard that calls for a 1/2" mounting hole. The tilt/fold-down mechanism allows the antenna to be adjusted more than 90 degrees in either direction parallel to its mounting surface. Even when angle adjustment isn't a requirement, the fold down option can be very helpful to those moving in and out of parking facilities. The base includes a rubber gasket/seal to protect against water leaks. All exposed metal parts are finished in classy, gloss black chrome. If additional security is needed, the optional SLS-1 key lock set may be purchased to prevent casual or criminal removal of the antenna.

To compliment the design and features of the antenna, we finished the kit off with our exclusive FireRing terminated coaxial cable. After all, if you're going to have the best antenna ... shouldn't you have the best coax carrying the information to and from your radio? The coax is 18ft (5.5m) so you can mount it just about anywhere and have plenty enough cable to make it to the radio. To get more details on the coax cable used in this kit, click here. For information on where to buy ... WHERE TO BUY?

And don't forget ... ALL antennas, regardless of style or manufacturer, MUST be tuned after installation on the vehicle. Transmitting antennas are not "plug-n-play" devices. Read our article regarding this matter. Also, visit our technical library to find the answers to your most common questions or to learn how to troubleshoot and tune your CB antenna. It is unique on the Internet!

1-Year Limited Warranty

goodtimes

11-18-2005, 04:05 PM

Even the ICOM radio isn't really loud enough for me, I might get an external speaker someday again.

Hmmmm....I hadn't really thought about this, Chuck. It might help me hear you on the freeway with my windows down. (or did I hear you just fine, and chose to ignore you???? :P)

Ursidae69

11-18-2005, 04:17 PM

Hmmmm....I hadn't really thought about this, Chuck. It might help me hear you on the freeway with my windows down. (or did I hear you just fine, and chose to ignore you???? :P)

I'm pretty sure you were just ignoring me, no worries, didn't hurt my feelings.... :shakin:

Radio shack sells small external speakers for cheap. My last truck had an amplified external speaker that would blow your ears out if you turned it up too loud.

Suty

11-18-2005, 05:25 PM

OK, CB Guys, I am using the Midland 79-290 with a Firestik 2 antenna. The antenna is attached to my Demello Bed Bar. I had a friend SWR it for me , it seems to be working ok. Is there a better Antenna mounting system ? I am planning to buy a Icom 208H in the near future and I was wondering what antenna would y'all recommend for that ? Thanks, Tu Compa, Suty

BajaTaco

11-18-2005, 05:42 PM

The most important thing is the antenna and the middle of the roof is the very best. I opted for fender mount and it shows.

Chuck, just curious what you mean by "it shows".

Ursidae69

11-18-2005, 07:34 PM

Chuck, just curious what you mean by "it shows".

By that I meant that I can't seem to get the SWR readings as good as those with the roof mount and my range is not nearly as good as those with a roof mount. I just am not ready yet to drill my roof. Maybe someday.

Scott Brady

11-18-2005, 09:40 PM

ooooo I like the Venice...

asteffes

11-18-2005, 11:08 PM

BajaTaco

11-19-2005, 12:41 AM

By that I meant that I can't seem to get the SWR readings as good as those with the roof mount and my range is not nearly as good as those with a roof mount. I just am not ready yet to drill my roof. Maybe someday.

I would agree that the roof is probably the best, but I am having really good success with my fender mounts.

Ursidae69

11-19-2005, 07:27 AM

ooooo I like the Venice...

That is the antenna I use. On the roof, it will be pretty good for you, plus it is black.

Boston Mangler

11-27-2005, 02:36 AM

Here is my current setup:

Cobra18WXSTII

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/alpineipod2.jpg

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/alpineipod3.jpg

I got the antenna (wilson fiberglass) mounted to the upper light mount of my ARB with a quick disconnect! Works great!

I have been tossing around the idea of replacing this standard "CB" with a hi power "Race Radio" that the Baja teams use. They are programmable and can be programmed to work with CB's and they have a MUCH longer range. Not sure on the exact specifics but most of them are 50-110watts.

More info on that here: http://www.pciraceradios.com/

Boston Mangler

11-27-2005, 02:44 AM

By that I meant that I can't seem to get the SWR readings as good as those with the roof mount and my range is not nearly as good as those with a roof mount. I just am not ready yet to drill my roof. Maybe someday.

They do offer some really nice super heavy duty magnetic mounts for the roof. Not the usual radio shack stuff!

http://www.pciraceradios.com/catalog/default.aspx?ProductID=10390

pskhaat

11-27-2005, 02:48 AM

Do you know if Toyota makes a single-DIN OEM FM/AM/CD radio? I'd like to eventually take out the double-DIN and do what you did there...

Boston Mangler

11-27-2005, 02:50 AM

Do you know if Toyota makes a single-DIN OEM FM/AM/CD radio? I'd like to eventually take out the double-DIN and do what you did there...

Yes, my 99 Taco had one, super hard to come by though. It had the AM/FM/CD in one din and the storage pocket below.

It looked similar to this one but had radio controls:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/TOYOTA-CD-PLAYER-IN-DASH-MODEL-34224-MAY-1996_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ38641QQitemZ801804 3814QQrdZ1

I remember it was NOT easy finding this when i first got the truck!

Are you dead set on an OEM Toyota head unit?? I like the current head unit i have because it has a direct interface with my iPod and i control the iPod straight from the Alpine head unit. The iPod is in the glove box and i never have to touch it and i have direct access to 60gb of my tunes via the head unit! VERY cool for long trips!!!

My .02

pskhaat

11-27-2005, 03:30 AM

Are you dead set on an OEM Toyota head unit?

Not DEAD set, just I like keeping things as stock as possible. Thinking about the Toyota electric locker instead of ARB for the exact same reason.

I'm not a big music buff. I have some CDs that I have/burn, and most music/talk is from FM/AM, but the majority of the time I travel without music or the like (some people find that annoying when driving with me on long distances :-)

That said, my CB, Ham radio, MP3/OGG player, son's portable DVD, I play through an FM transmitter.

Boston Mangler

11-27-2005, 04:15 AM

Not DEAD set, just I like keeping things as stock as possible. Thinking about the Toyota electric locker instead of ARB for the exact same reason..

Cant blame ya! Toyota engineering is as nice as ya can get! I am just a gadgety type of guy! :D

Yes, there lockers are top notch and simple genius!

+ d

11-27-2005, 07:01 AM

...Not the usual radio shack stuff! http://www.pciraceradios.com/catalog/default.aspx?ProductID=10390

should say not! i think i am gonna add the "external male catheter kit" (http://www.pciraceradios.com/catalog/default.aspx?ProductID=10237) to my xmas wish list...that way i can web-wheel for hours non-stop!

seriously though, nice link...and welcome to the forum, good to have another san diegan around.

and by the way, i think you have some 'splaining to do over in this thread (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=258)

okay, thread hijack over,
david

BajaTaco

11-27-2005, 07:41 PM

Do you know if Toyota makes a single-DIN OEM FM/AM/CD radio? I'd like to eventually take out the double-DIN and do what you did there...

Dang! and I just gave mine away only a few weeks ago. No kidding.

vanguard

11-29-2005, 09:12 AM

Desertdude

11-29-2005, 09:24 PM

p1michaud

11-30-2005, 01:58 PM

Bought all my junk there and will be buying more :box:

Ditto,
purchased an antenna and mounts from them. Excellent to deal with!
Cheers :beer:,
P

BMAN

12-01-2005, 10:39 PM

Brandon Hoy is a redneck hack who cant drive.

If you don't believe me, just look at his FJ40....what kind of self respecting man would put a coors light bottle opener on the back of a 40? And have you seen the roll cage in that thing?!?!?! Man, I'd be scared to drive that. As for his driving skills, ask him how he managed to get body damage in Box Canyon! Or get stuck between a pair of 4" tall rocks on Upper Ajax......besides, the guy makes rebar for a living....what does he know.

*disclaimer:since I can't use emoticons on this site.....and for those who don't know me, I'm being sarcastic. I've known Brandon for a number of years and have been 'wheeling with him quite a few times...but I still give him crap about that bottle opener!

Scott, let me first appologize for my use of language so early in my membership here but... Hey Brian **** You, you drive a Jeep, why the hell would these fine folks let you hang around here anyway?

There, now that I'm done with that (for those who don't know or didn't read... Brian and I go WAY back and I actually quite enjoy his company on the trail) I'll get into the GOOD stuff.

AWW Crap just saw the time Gotta split for now... will be back with "THE GOOD STUFF" this evening in an EDIT to this post.

Ursidae69

12-01-2005, 10:45 PM

You got body damage in Box Canyon BMAN? Wow, my even old ZR2 didn't get body damage in Box Canyon! :shakin: :shakin: :hehe:

Hey Bman, how's things, been a long time, Nov 03 I think. :camping:

BMAN

12-02-2005, 05:16 AM

You never got body damage in the Box cause you never "WHEELED" the box. You buncha poons ain't got the stones to get Body Damage in the Box. It's all about pushin the envelope.

Chuckles, it's been a long time for sure. I think the last time we talked was Zafari 04 at camp one night, and wheeled the last time in '03. Good to see that ya stepped over to the Dark.

Back to the topic at hand... radios.

I zipped through and didn't see where Brady made a choice for his new rig so I'll assume that the choice hasn't been made. My opinions on radio choice and setup are all my own, based on hours of research and tons of reading. Unfortunately most of my opinions aren't based on my own real world experiences, you see unlike some people that I know, my funds are limited when it comes to these matters. I will however share that here in the east valley there is a group of approx. 30 individuals who frequently talk on channel 14. I discuss theory and whatnot with them weekly if not daily and have used their knowledge and experiences along with those of both my father and Granfather (both military radio men) to help base my opinions.

My own personal rigs are as follows... FJ40 has a tweaked Uniden 520 and a 1/4 wave whip mounted to the tire carrier at the Drivers rear corner. This is the radio that was in the truck when I bought it. I spent $15 to have it tweaked to push 8watts deadkey and swing 15 on TX.

In the DC Tacoma I run a old Uniden 568 tweaked and peaked (8dk/15swing also) by one of the local EV guys on channel 14 with a k40 mag mount in the center of my roof. This transmits and Rec's much better than the radio in the 40 series.

In my 60 series (motorless in the driveway) there is a Maxon, uniden 510 ripoff from Walmart with Wilson 1k hardmounted through the roof at about center and 1/3 back from the windshield. This radio and antenna by far get the best distance with good clear audio on the other end.

All combinations are tuned under 1.2 SWR at 1 and 40. In the Tacoma I have talked 30+ miles across town on multiple occasions with the furthest distance talked being from my driveway in Mesa, az to a group of 4 radios in Bakerfield, Ca. Not bad for a basically barefoot rig.

My Ultimate choice when it come to the 60 series and the rig I will run in it when the time comes will be a Galaxy 959 with a pre-amp and 500+ watts running through the Wilson 1k. I'm sure I'll catch hell here too since it seems to be the consensus everywhere I post my opinions about radios. PSSKHAT (scott) and I seem to go back and forth on the merits of CB vs Ham in every thread about trail communications, but I don't think that we will on this one, being that Brady's Q was specific to CB radios.

I will concede that a very nice HAM rig can be had for the same price or cheaper than the setup I plan to run and will probably get more consistent range results than my rig, but my major point of contention on the HAM vs CB argument is this... Any indiot can walk into Walmart and start X-mitting and Rec'vg on a CB for about $40. Most of the people I encounter on my travels are those people, not idiots per-se, but the type of people that go the cheapest most inexpensive route. These people are the people who although they may not be able to get back to me on the radio they WILL here me calling for help and hopefully either come in for the rescue or head out to call for the big guns. The majority of wheelers out on the trails that I wheel run CB not HAM and that's only if they run radios at all. I prefer to be in contact with the majority of people close to me not the minority.

I could rone on and on and continue to ramble about all the crap I know enough to about to be dangerous but I think I've taken it further here than I need to.

Oh yeah Brian... FU again there HEEP boy. Let's wheel!

calamaridog

12-02-2005, 08:23 AM

I like the mag mount Wilson 1000. I can run it in the center of my roof for optimal performance but I can move it forward or backwards if I'm using my roof rack for a trip or if I change my rooftop setup around. I've never actually seen a mag mount knocked off a roof.

The Cobra 75WX ST, say what you want but it makes for the cleanest installs possible. You can mount the remote installation box behind the dash or under the seat or any number of places. The all-in-one handset can be plugged in and unplugged at your leasure and stored anywhere you want.

You also don't have another accessory taking up valuable space where something much cooler than a cb radio can reside.

Scott, you can also install remote installation boxes in your other rigs and use the same all-in-one handset in whichever vehicle you are using that day.

Just my .02 for whatever it is worth. As long as you have a decent SWR reading, your set-up is fine I'm sure.

Boston Mangler

12-02-2005, 12:46 PM

The Cobra 75WX ST, say what you want but it makes for the cleanest installs possible. You can mount the remote installation box behind the dash or under the seat or any number of places. The all-in-one handset can be plugged in and unplugged at your leasure and stored anywhere you want..

I disagree! I think the pic below is the cleaneast install possible! :D

It frees up unused space, it doesnt take up any additional space in the ashtray, below the dash, next to the seat, etc.....

I would have never thought ADDing a CB would GAIN me space, but now with this alpine/ipod (the head unit controls the entire iPod, way cool) setup my rig is free or all my CD's that littered the interior and they are all on a tiny ipod stuffed in my glovebox!

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/alpineipod3.jpg

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/alpineipod2.jpg

Scott Brady

12-02-2005, 03:35 PM

Oh yeah Brian... FU again there HEEP boy. Let's wheel!

BMAN...

Thanks for the laughs and illegal CB set-up advice :shakin:

Scott Brady

12-02-2005, 03:37 PM

Ursidae69

12-02-2005, 03:45 PM

BMAN...

Thanks for the laughs and illegal CB set-up advice :shakin:

LMAO, you know when you're on the trail and some trucker is 50 miles away is bleeding into every channel and you cannot hear the front of the group because you've got the squelch set so damn high, that's from tweaked cb radios like BMAN's! :shakin: :shakin:

Scott Brady

12-02-2005, 03:47 PM

Ok, this is my plan. What do you think?

Unit: Cobra 25 WX NW ST
http://www.walcottcb.com/catalog/images/25WXNWST.jpg

Antenna: Firestick "rome" 5/8 Wave Base, roof mount

pskhaat

12-02-2005, 03:57 PM

Yeah, BMAN & I debate this ad nausum. I have a CB and I have a decent Ham rig, and I'll admit I also have a 10 meter 100w linear amplifier that I could easily make work with 11 meter in the worst case scenario.

Amateur radios are by defintion (and in general) a much better quality commercial setup (Ham radios are often commercial setups with different programming). The only benefit on the trail is the capability of contacting repeaters for additional distance (w/ the proper repeater anywhere in the world) and the ability to make a phone call through the radio. Yes it then becomes legal to run sick power at Ham freq's too, but honestly if I were in need of medical help in the bush I'd pump 11 meter to anything and deal with any FCC fine.

Quality wise, I can talk from North Scottsdale to Tucson on 5w of power regularly (without waiting for electromagnetic conditions to exist as per CB). Ain't nothin' wrong w/ CB at all really as you're right BMAN anyone can walk into Wallys and be on the air. And those people often are on the air saying things and interrupting many of my conversations on the trail. BUT are we anyone? We are a group that goes for the least expensive options on our rigs? People like us should eventually become Hams; if even for off-road event communication alone.

Calamaridog, we've I believe talked about this elsewhere, but SWR only show the impedance match. The feed line (coax) and antenna can both be `detuned' and cancel each other out, reduce effective radiated power to nill, and you can still have near 1.0 SWR. SWs need to be checked throughout the system. As for CB, it should be checked at the antenna and then at the radio to ensure its consistency.

goodtimes

12-02-2005, 05:06 PM

Wow, how did I miss Bman's posts? I would have reponded properly earlier than this if I had.

When the chips are down, I would not rely on a tweaked CB to get me out of trouble. Even 8 watts is nothing compared to the *legal* 1500 watts I can push from a HAM. FCC fine or not, I'll take more power. Of course, this is rarely a real world concern, as most of us travel in groups anyway. As Brandon mentioned, everybody and their brother uses CB. This is the problem. Too many people restricted to 39 channels (assuming they leave the emergency channel open). It is SO much nicer to have crisp, clear communications within your group and not have to fight for airspace with every other group out there. It is not uncommon for groups I travel with to go 4 or 5 days without having to hear anyone else outside of our group. It is also very nice to spread the group out 15 or 20 miles (no one eating dust, can travel at your own pace, someone can stop and let the wife to water a bush in relative privacy w/o holding the group up, etc) and still maintain clear communication from the front to the back w/o relaying messages down the line of vehicles. If I had to choose one or the other, I would take the HAM. But, this being America and all...I don't have to choose. So I have both.

Scott, I used to have 25 wx nw st in my old s-10. It was a good radio. Easy to adjust w/o looking at the radio (thus taking your eyes off the road), easy on the eyes at night, small enough to fit where the OE tape deck was mounted (in the center console, to the right of my knees). The speaker was lacking though (again...mounted in the console), so I ran a external speaker into my ashtray. Other than that, great rig.

BMAN

12-02-2005, 05:32 PM

SCOTT,

And others... please go here
http://www.signalengineering.com/ultimate/index.html
and read both anttena and coax basics prior to doing your installs. The info here will hopefully help explain and clarify a few things for ya on your next install. The only thing I tend to disagree on with this guy is the fact that he preffers the FG antennas over Wilson type bottom loaders. My own experience is that FG antennas do not get nearly as good a RX and TX as Bottom Loaders.

And for once I agree w/ Brian... get both!

calamaridog

12-04-2005, 03:27 AM

I actually own that unit. It worked great for the first two years, and then the PTT started failing. Now it does not work. Too bad, as it is a slick idea.

I used the one in my Tacoma on about 12 trips before selling the truck. Thankfully, it did not fail. Hopefully, the new one will work for me in the new truck.

Scenic WonderRunner

12-28-2005, 01:54 AM

I found a new CB by Cobra.....it's the 200 GTL......it's called a 10 meter....but also does the CB channels. I guess it's kind of one of those questionable outlaw radios. I know it's technically not legal....but who cares if you are 100 miles from no where with no cell phone service! (you can run it on low power, 30 watts, until you need the power!)

Close to the Galaxy 95T but half the price.

Anyway......I'm finding prices as low as $200. Great deal for what it can do!

It puts out 100 to 150 watts+ on SSB.
Guys are saying they are talking ALL over the USA on this thing....including Europe and New Zealand!

I'm seriously thinking of getting this.....and finally upgrading my "old truckin' days" Johnson CB Radio from 1976!!!!! (still works flawlessly!)

Anybody have this Cobra 200 GTL radio?....Thoughts?

LINK to Write UP: http://www.jollyrogercb.com/

http://www.premiere-electronics.net/store/media/200_GTL_DX-mic2.jpg

pskhaat

12-28-2005, 02:52 AM

Kicking the dead horse, but at those prices you might as well just become a Ham, pass the simple test, and pick up a commercial|amateur rig. You're legal to 1500 watts, get repeater usage, and a bundle more frequency allocations.

Actually that CB is probably great, but when you're gonna dole that kind of $, you could get a VHF/UHF + scanner rig for 'bout the same price.

Scenic WonderRunner

12-28-2005, 02:57 AM

Thanks for the input.......

I'm considering getting my ham license in the future.

I could just run this radio on the CB channels until I get my license.

Then eventually I would like to get a 2Meter.

I would then have 10 meter.....and 2 meter............and high power CB!

pskhaat

12-28-2005, 12:56 PM

Good points. Beware that you need to obtain a 2nd level FCC license to utilize 10 meter; you will need to learn CW (Morse). First level Ham license does not inlcude 10 meter :-(

Scenic WonderRunner

12-28-2005, 03:55 PM

Wow!......see!.....so much to learn!

I would rather be out exploring and talking on my renegade CB....than spending all that time studying!.....hehe

Just Kidding!

But it does seem like a lot of work. We have so many things that go BEEP now....I don't know if I can learn any more BEEPS!......LOL

k6uk

01-03-2006, 09:12 AM

Hey all. A few things about radio installations and radio choices.

First of all the importance of your grounding system:
The grounding system in your car can be thought of as half of your antenna system. To do it right, you would spend the time/energy to make sure you have good grounding throughout the vehicle - doors, hood, body panels, bumpers - grounding each to the frame with copper braid, or solid copper strap. This becomes more vital if you are pushing power ie. ham radio. If you mount your antenna on a bumper make sure you have a good ground to the bumper. Many times, even though the bumper is metal it is isolated from ground due to paint layers between it and the frame. All ground straps/connections should be to bare metal... you can clearcoat over the joint aftewards.

This and getting the antenna as high on the vehicle as possible will improve your installation greatly.

As for getting a hybrid 10meter/CB rig. These radios are really just "Export" cb radios with extended range. If you are seriously interested in being able to communicate on the ham bands I would definately suggest getting an icom or yaesu HF rig. Yes they are more expensive, but much more capable.

Although it is pretty easy to get illegal CB equipment and amplifiers - your first step should be getting your antenna installation optimized. I would suggest leaving long-range communications to the Amateur Bands using repeaters or HF radios.

If any of you would like to get your HAM Tickets I would be glad to point you in the right direction. BTW things are in the works at the moment to eliminate the morse code requirement entirely on all license classes.

Here's a radio worth lusting over... to motivate and inspire:
http://www.icomamerica.com/products/amateur/7000/

This is a very expensive example ($1400) but with the right setup can talk around the world on HF, and can talk on 2M and 440 MHZ plus the remote head lets you save precious cab space. Similar radios can be had for as little as $700 new... probably 500 bucks used.

Good luck, and 73

Mike
K6UK

Scenic WonderRunner

08-04-2006, 11:24 PM

How about we revive the CB Radio thread..............?

I got lucky today when I answered a guys ad on Craigslist for CB Radio's and Antenna's.

I picked up a like new.........

Wilson 1000......... (http://www.wilsonantenna.com/w1000.htm)

...for only $28 bucks!

Here is the best buy I've found online for a Wilson 1000...... (http://www.buyreliant.com/cbantenna/magnetic_antennas.htm)

You can still see the dust on it from sitting in his storage.

He even helped me set the SWR........and on channel 23 it was Stuck at #1........perfect!

......did somebody say....."SWR".........:ylsmoke:

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0804Wilsonantenna0029.jpg

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0804Wilsonantenna0030.jpg

Scenic WonderRunner

08-06-2006, 01:08 AM

Thought I would add a couple pics.

I'm really pleased that I can remove the antenna....and screw on a protective cap. .....and leave the mag mount in place!

I'm hoping to make a storage sleave for my antenna....maybe out of 1/4 inch PVC Pipe. And maybe store the antenna when not in use, up high along my ceiling in back.

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0805WilsonantennaCBRadio0001.jpg

Also thought I would show my CB Radio install location.

You are looking at an antique.........RF Johnson #123 Cb Radio.........Circa 1976...! My old truckers radio.....before CB Radios got Kewl! Maybe this install pic will help somebody else while deciding where to put theirs. This solution works perfect in my truck! I'm even using an existing screw hole. It's out of the way of the passengers legs. The speaker is turned to the outside so I can hear.

The baggie you see in the upper right of the pic under my floor mat.......is my Mouse Trap!.....within easy reach to do the dirty deed!........so I can get some sleep!.........:sombrero:

Notice the mileage on the speedo!...........This was Gods gift to me!.......even though the engine is a pain in the !@#$%^%$#@!!!!

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0805WilsonantennaCBRadio0004.jpg

......breaker ....breaker!.............how 'boutcha good buddy?!!:friday:

Scenic WonderRunner

10-08-2006, 10:12 PM

Here is an update on my new Wilson 1000 antenna.

During my recent trip to AZ, UT, CO. .... I was consistantly talking/receiving 15 to 60+ miles.

My longest distance line of sight contact was from the "Top of the World" trail near Moab clear out 60+ miles to west of Green River, UT to a trucker along the I-70. I guess being up high is like having a Huge antenna! I was also talking way out east into Colorado along the I-70 about that same distance.

I was also shooting skip from Kayenta, Arizona.....to Bakersfield, CA. and talking clear as a bell (although this does not really count.....it's kinda fun though!).

I've also been checking my radio here around San Diego (lots of hilly terrain) and find that I'm consistantly putting out 15 to 40 miles. Although I'm unable to talk to Jack Silberman who lives less than 15 miles from me because of two very large hills. I can hear him faintly but he can't hear me.

This is with my good old (1976) stock RF Johnson CB Radio as pictured above.

I would recommend a Wilson 1000 (or 5000) to anyone. It's the best antenna I have ever had and my radio has never put out this good in 30 years of running it!

Be sure to dial in your "SWR" Perfect.....and you will be amazed! (did somebody say "SWR".....?!!)

It's ALL about the antenna!:wavey:

.

RADIO WAVE PROPAGATION (http://home.att.net/~wizardoz/cbmw/rwpropag.html)

.

Westy

04-13-2007, 05:58 PM

Can someone recommend a good CB communications type shop in the East Valley - Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa...

Thanks!

flyingwil

04-13-2007, 06:08 PM

Can someone recommend a good CB communications type shop in the East Valley - Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa...

Thanks!

CB Exchange on Main in Mesa...

PhulesAU

04-14-2007, 01:06 AM

:elkgrin: Do you have problems with the cathodes in your Johnson, being mounted that way????:hehe:

gary in ohio

04-14-2007, 03:10 AM

Remember that Scott's Taco is often on show though, the gray-area radios may not be the best to permanently mount?

There is nothing grey about them., They are illegal radio's.

TJVach

04-17-2007, 02:17 PM

I'm really not sure if you folks have already talked about this or not, but I will throw it out there. I come from the go two miles in 5 days kind of wheeling and just got sick of breaking stuff so I am slowly changing my rig to an expedition type. It seems like a lot more fun to me. Anyway enough with the jibbi jabber to the point at hand. A lot of us folks run Everhardt Antennas they have worked very very very well low swr and there are some flexible series ones that are awesome. I have bent mine in half from low hanging brush with absolutely no problems. It is definitely a rugged type of antenna. I used to have a wilson 1000, but I broke the whip twice so I moved to the Everhardt's and I am glad I did. Just a little info for ya. Thanks

PhulesAU

04-17-2007, 03:08 PM

Got a link?? I've use Wilsons all the time, with center loading coils and have only broken one. I accidentally put a Jeep on top of it. Never broke a whip. But I'm willing to look at a better idea. I've got UHF,VHF, 800, AIR, SAT ,CB and GPS. So a tougher antenna is always a good thing. Can You Hear Me Now??

TJVach

04-17-2007, 03:21 PM

Here ya go:

http://www.everhardtantennas.com/

Yeah I know they have CB and Scanner Whips, but I don't think they have UHF/VHF etc. Go to Catalog and then CB Replacement Whips. They don't have prices on their site, but I can tell you that they are about the price of Wilson Fiberglass antennae. Hope this helps.

PhulesAU

04-18-2007, 12:40 AM

Thanks for the link, And they are almost local even!!!

Willman

04-24-2007, 04:07 AM

Great thread!!!

:coffee:

Looking at mounting my Cb antenna off my rear bumper on the top part of my swing-out gate...Going to fab a tab as picture shows.....Looks like it is going to take more than 18 ft. of cable.....

What do you guys think? Is this a good spot?

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f374/nicwillman/DSC01428.jpg

1leglance

04-24-2007, 04:27 AM

I have found with a very similar mount on my FJ cruiser that I am very directional with my cb, I shoot a great signal at the 2 o'clock postion or out the frount passenger side tire way...
that is why the center of the roof is best, you create a round pattern, any other mounting creates directional paths...
I am switching to a wilson 1000 center roof....at least I bought the parts today now I just have to pop the headliner out and look at how the sunroof with affect mounting.
enjoy,
1leglance

TJVach

04-24-2007, 01:28 PM

Willman

04-24-2007, 03:48 PM

Willman -
Yeah that isn't too bad of a position but like 1leglance said center of the roof is best. Do you have a roof rack? That's where I am putting my new one as soon as I get it. Like I was telling PhulesAU before some of the everhardt's can be bent in half with no problems so low hanging brush is not a problem at all.

Thanks guys for the posts!!!...A roof rack is a little down on my mod list....Just trying to find the best place now until the rack and roof top tent come!!!!

adventureduo

04-25-2007, 10:00 PM

Roof mount Wilson and a Cobra radio peaked and tweaked. 500 watt linear on the side. Best combo evar.

Legally.. Roof mount Wilson and Cobra.

Been using this combo for a while and never one single problem.. it's always someone elses radio that has the problem.

Willman

04-27-2007, 09:00 PM

I'd call the guys at http://www.walcottcb.com/catalog/index.php and ask for a tech. I've found their customer service to be outstanding. They sold me on the wilson 1000 roof mount after I had trouble installing my firestik. The guy had been installing CBs for over 20 years and really knew his stuff.

Thanks for the link!!! :luxhello: Those guys helped me get all hooked up!!!

Got an uniden pro520xl to go into the ashtray and all the goodies like firestik FireFly 3' antenna 30' cable and etc!!!

:ylsmoke:

\\'anderer

04-28-2007, 01:50 AM

Willman

05-10-2007, 05:10 AM

Thanks for the link!!! :luxhello: Those guys helped me get all hooked up!!!

Got an uniden pro520xl to go into the ashtray and all the goodies like firestik FireFly 3' antenna 30' cable and etc!!!

:ylsmoke:

Got it all in!!

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f374/nicwillman/DSC02720.jpg

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f374/nicwillman/DSC02733.jpg

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f374/nicwillman/DSC02722-1.jpg

still need to test it!!

:jumping:

2006KJSPORT4x4

05-10-2007, 05:43 AM

Here's mine...maybe not the best but i'm still proud of it...

Here is the quick disconnect mount just in front of the passenger side rear taillight. The mount is a custom 2 piece aluminum stock welded on 2 sides and sheet metal screwed into the body of the Jeep. The tailight itself also pushes against the mount to help secure it in place. There is a 4' blue Firestik antenna that gets placed there when in use.

http://photos-038.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v78/100/11/56400045/n56400045_30168038_3501.jpg

As for the CB itself it gets placed right next to the center console on the passenger side. It fits quite nice there actually and has not affected the comfort to the pasenger seating position at all. I took a piece of aluminum stock again and bent it in 2 spots to make the bracket that then goes underneath the center console. The CB squeezes into the mount and rests on it and the passenger seat rail quite nicely. Being next to the center console also makes it easier to hide the wires. I then wired into the cigarette lighter which gets constant power so i can use it with the Jeep on or off.

http://photos-039.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v78/100/11/56400045/n56400045_30168039_3844.jpg

I had an external speaker as well to mount and I was so excited when I found it would fit perfectly snug next to my steering column. there is now some velcro glued to the edge of the plastic trim and the bottom of the speaker to keep it from rattling around, but even before it was hardly noticeable.

http://photos-041.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v78/100/11/56400045/n56400045_30168041_4462.jpg
http://photos-042.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v78/100/11/56400045/n56400045_30168042_4760.jpg

vengeful

06-27-2007, 10:02 PM

Well...without reading through the full thread (I'll get to that later), I decided that I should post up my CB Setup.

I run a very simple CB + Antenna setup, with no modifications to the radio, or external accessories (read, amps, etc). Out of the box, my SWR was 1.1:1 on all channels, without tuning the setup.

I run a Radio Shack brand TRC521 Radio ($79.99) with weather alert, instant 9 and 19, full 4W of power on all 40 channels, and channel change buttons on the remote (very handy for quickly changing channels on the road).

I installed a Wilson 5000 Thru-Roof mounted antenna ($99.99), in line with my B-Pillars, and ran the coax down the b-pillar on the drivers side (since my stereo wiring all runs down the passenger side) and into the radio.

I added ground straps for the hood, doors, hatch, and exhaust. I also added a larger gauge ground cable from the battery and the alternator, and grounded the starter body. The stereo is grounded to the chassis as well. I get zero interference from the radio, even at high volumes with the squelch turned all the way to 0. I get zero static, unless I pass under high-voltage lines. My SWR with my roof rack basket mounted is 1.4:1 (very acceptable) and without it is 1.1:1 on all 40.

On a recent wheeling trip to Rausch Creek in Tremont, Pennsylvania, I was picking up CB transmissions (NOT SKIP) from Hazleton all the way down to Harrisburg.

On another trip to Rausch, I was picking up Skip from as far away as Oklahoma, and talking right back, without any issues.

On a typical day, I see anywhere from 10-20 miles of range on the highway, depending on terrain, and the other persons radio.

Previous was a Cobra 18WXSTII with a Firestik II with a body side ball mount, and I couldn't hear the tailgunner in my trail group, not 500 feet away.

I had used a Cobra 19 Ultra III for a while in place of the Radio Shack unit, because my external speaker blew out on me, and the Radio Shack one didn't have an internal speaker. My SWR with that radio was 2.4-2.7:1. I reinstalled the Radio Shack radio, and it read out at 1.1:1 again. Perfect!

No amp, no sideband, no tweaks, no peak or tune....just out of the box perfection!

AZTrooper

07-07-2007, 10:21 PM

My current setup is a Cobra 18 WX ST w/ a 5" mag roof mount and a 4' Firestick. My problem is, iwhen passing under trees with low braches, the mag mount doesn't hold. I figure this may be due to the lack of flexibility in the antenna. So I'm in the market for a better roof mount and antenna system. I'm happy with my Cobra unit.

So I'm looking at a Wilson 1000 permanent roof mount with their 39" short load whip. I don't want to mount my antanna anywhere else as the roof on my trooper is very large ground plane. My question is, how do I mount it? I'm sure it comes with instructions, but I can't seem to find any info on what is necessary to mount it.

Thanks in a dvance.

vengeful

07-11-2007, 04:24 PM

Installation of a peranent roof mount is actually very straightforward. Granted, it is easier said than done, but isn't everything?

The first step is removing the headliner to find the best spot to drill through the roof. Use a UniBit/step-bit to drill the hole the correct size, as per the mounting requirements. Once you have the base mounted, all that's left is routing the wiring, being sure to keep it away from any stereo signal or power wires, as they will interfere with the coax, even if it is shielded.

Tune it with a good SWR meter at the radio and antenna, test it, and go! It took me about 4 hours from start to finish to install my roof mount Wilson 5000, start to finish, including dropping the headliner, and removing the sundry interior bits to run the wiring cleanly.

When tuning the antenna, you need to be well away from any buildings, power lines or other sizeable metal structures, and have all of the doors closed on the truck. There are lots of good antenna tuning write-ups on the web, and I believe FireStik even has one in their tech section.

Good luck, and if you have any issues, you now where to find us!

AZTrooper

07-17-2007, 06:04 PM

Here's the new permanent antenna I had installed yesterday. It was done by Niles Radio, a local shop who is contracted with all the law enforcement agencies here in Flagstaff. This is the same antenna all the law enforcement and emergency vehicles have. The installer said he's had better success with this setup than most Wilson setups. Here's some pictures I took this morning.

Here's a picture of how I mounted my Cobra unit.
http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w287/AZTrooper/IMG_0773.jpg

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w287/AZTrooper/IMG_1124.jpg

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w287/AZTrooper/IMG_1125.jpg

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w287/AZTrooper/IMG_1126.jpg

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w287/AZTrooper/IMG_1127.jpg

Scenic WonderRunner

01-15-2008, 03:06 AM

I just want to Reiterate!

If you buy a Quality CB Antenna like a Wilson 1000 or 5000.....or maybe a Firestik (but it's just not as good!).............

............and Tune it with an SWR Meter to the Perfect Setting.........you will be amazed at how far you can talk on a CB Radio!

I can consistantly talk 60+ miles on the flat desert with another person that has a quality antenna and tuned.

If you will improve your antenna situation........ALL the others in your group on the trail will be so pleased!............because now you can talk!

Did I say............Quality CB Antenna................AND...........SWR Meter!

It could even save your life!

Just......Do It!:26_7_2:

.

Scott Brady

01-15-2008, 03:05 PM

Fun to see this thread revived. I have actually made the decision to remove the CB from my truck, and do not intend to intall another one.

I will put together a little handheld with a mag-mount antenna just for the rare instance I need one.

Once you go VHF...

adventureduo

01-15-2008, 04:15 PM

Wow, thats interesting to hear Scott.

I would think you'd just keep the unit in the truck just in case. Cheap insurance IMHO (even though you cant get out very far). Doesnt take up that much space and it's already installed ready to go. Plus, most of the population on the trails are still on CB.

Why even bother with pulling it out and putting a worse radio config in?

I guess if i could get everyone i go out with to switch over to HAM then id ditch my radio.. ... seems like there's only a handful of us with HAM's on any given trip.

Scott Brady

01-15-2008, 04:19 PM

You know, it is all part of the simplification kick I am on. I will only bring the handheld CB when I need to use it (like for a club type event). Otherwise, just reduce the clutter as much at possible.

Everyone I travel with on a regular basis has 2M, which is so superior, I cant even imagine trying to use CB again.

For the Disco I, I am going to install a multi-band VHF/UHF Mobile. In an emergency, I can transmit on the CB frequencies with those units (with a little modification).

DaveInDenver

01-15-2008, 05:26 PM

For the Disco I, I am going to install a multi-band VHF/UHF Mobile. In an emergency, I can transmit on the CB frequencies with those units (with a little modification).
Just a FYI, this is not true of a VHF/UHF mobile. Most of them can be opened up to do MARS/CAP range of TX, but not CB. You'll need a multi-band HF that covers 10 and 12 meters to even potentially have a way to open them up on 11 meter CB range. There is no ham 11 meter, so none of them do it legally from the box, but some 10 meter radios might be able to be modified to TX on 11 meters. But do be aware that it's entirely possible that doing that will eventually ruin your radio. I have to admit that beyond the legal and moral obligations that I think it's a big mistake to do this unless you really understand how your radio works. Microprocessor controlled radios might have the ability to force the TX range, but that does not mean the RF finals can handle it without damage. This is a problem with VX-5R, where people will freeband the TX range to use them on 222MHz and in the process they die an early death. Also don't assume that just because a radio can receive a band means that it can also potentially transmit on it. Two different sections and there is no inherent relationship between the two.

Scott Brady

01-15-2008, 06:04 PM

Several multi-band radios can do this (which is why I said multi-band). Some require only a software mod, some require a physical modification. I have seen it work on a bench (Icom 706), and on the trail (Yeasu)

Per the regulations I have read, there is nothing moral or illegal about modifying a radio to transmit on those channels, as long as it is only used in an emergency. In an emergency, you can transmit on all bands, by any means. Correct?

DaveInDenver

01-15-2008, 07:01 PM

Several multi-band radios can do this (which is why I said multi-band). Some require only a software mod, some require a physical modification. I have seen it work on a bench (Icom 706), and on the trail (Yeasu)
That is my point, you can do the software mod or pull up a diode and the radio will tune the VFO to the requested TX frequency. But that is not changing the characteristic of the RF amp. Think of it this way. You can hook up a laptop to the ECU in your truck and change the rev limiter to 9,000 RPM. When you push the throttle the computer will not stop you from doing that, but that does not guarantee that the pistons won't come through the block. Does that analogy make sense?

Most manufacturers are building generic boards where they can and it's likely that a main board is designed to handle a huge range of applications and models. But that stuff is relatively cheap, flexible and highly configurable. The RF side requires bigger and more expensive components, so the amps are probably designed with a smaller range of intended frequencies. So ICOM, Yeasu or Kenwood or whoever plops in the country legal finals depending on the market. Or maybe they don't and the finals are truly more wideband than they claim. I personally wouldn't be risking it with my $500 or $1000 radio without pouring over the schematics and having some test equipment hooked up first. The chance that a 10m or 12m rig can do 11m is pretty good, I will admit that. But also keep in mind that you can freeband a VX-7R and it will try to TX on CB. It puts out next to no actual RF energy at the connector and gets really hot in a hurry, though. Just gotta know what the radio is really capable of and what it's not.

Per the regulations I have read, there is nothing moral or illegal about modifying a radio to transmit on those channels, as long as it is only used in an emergency. In an emergency, you can transmit on all bands, by any means. Correct?
Yes and no. This is interpreted a couple of ways. Some people claim that in a life or limb emergency all means of communication are available. Others conclude that the FCC means that as a ham in an emergency you can use any ham band, any ham mode regardless of your license. IOW, a tech ham would be justified in transmitting a voice message at 1500W at 28.300MHz, a place that is usually reserved for Morse only at 200W for a tech. You are also 100% correct that there is no reason legally you can't do the modification as long as the radio still compiles with the EMI/EMC, bandwidth and sporadic noise regulations for ham rigs. Then what constitutes an emergency is a gray area. Come across a hiker with a broken leg and no cell phone service, so you call on a police frequency for help? Nope, that scenario resulted in a fine and loss of equipment for a guy in San Diego I think it was. To what level is not universally defined or recognized. If there was truly a life at stake I think all of us would do what's right and deal with the fall out later. But if the situation is not crystal clear and there were viable alternatives, then the decision is less clear. In the eye's of the FCC even a several day hike is the choice you make and anything else is most definitely illegal and I just think you need to understand that before planning on it as an option. Public service agencies, government and commercial operators take their frequency allocations seriously and tend to get really upset when you overstep your authority.

Scott Brady

01-15-2008, 07:29 PM

Scott Brady

01-15-2008, 07:30 PM

I really do not know for sure, but I do specifically remember one section of the manual for the test (and a question) specifically saying that in an emergency, you could transmit by whatever means necessary.

DaveInDenver

01-15-2008, 07:43 PM

The illegality is using a ham radio on anything other than ham. Within the ham hobby the idea of modifications and tweaks are perfectly legal (and in spirit encouraged, you are supposed to experiment). But you are not allowed in the rules to use a ham radio on other services. So you could take a commercial or public service radio and make it a ham radio, but once you do that it can't go back into commercial service. I don't believe it's actually illegal to even own a radio that could do out of ham TX, but once you use it for ham then you are never supposed to use it otherwise. There is a question of whether owning a freeband radio shows intent or not. IOW, if you own a HF radio that has been modified to work on CB the FCC could decide that just by owning it shows you intended to TX illegally or beyond your authority. It would be a really hard thing to prove unless you do it a lot and they have record of it. And even then if you stay within the rules and don't cause anyone's TV or garage door opener to go wacky, then it's also not gonna be noticed. Most (probably nearly every) times the reason someone is noticed is they are causing noise on a phone or a scrambled TV. Next to that would be TXing on a fire or police frequency. Someone who has a HF modded to do CB in the backcountry, who's gonna really care?

Whether or not a modified 867 fits the specs and rules of CB does not make it legal. It's not and there's not really a rule that can support that. But in practical terms, if you are using QRP levels it's really unlikely anyone would care. CB is all but ignored by the FCC in enforcement. But as a ham, I just wanted to point out that you are really supposed to be knowledgeable and mindful of these things.

And, yeah, Scott, that line about any means necessary is often quoted. No one is really sure what is defined by that because the FCC has generally imposed hefty penalties on people who have tested it and so it's not clear. I think this is largely because every possible case for usage can never be developed and documented and so I think the FCC would rather be vague and take it on a case-by-case basis. It's safe to assume that it means as a ham you can use any ham frequency for any mode (meaning you have access to any band even if it's not normally open under your license). It's less safe to assume as a ham you have the authority to use any frequency you want without justification.

Lynn

01-15-2008, 08:02 PM

Thanks for the additional information Dave. I would not likely do the CB mod. to the unit, but have seen it done successfully on an FT-857D and transmit effectively (before I was a HAM). He used it that way for several days on a trip without issue, transmitting on either 1.5 or 5 watts (I don't remember).

If an FT-867D was modified, and only transmitted at 4 watts on a CB channel, I assume that is still not kosher, or is it?

From what I understand, the modified FT-867D would be illegal in the FCC's eyes.

I did a little related research back when I was on a SAR team. I wanted to 'open up' my Ham HT for use during SAR activites. Even though I was licensed to use the radio on Ham freqs., and (as a member of the SAR team) I could legally use the SAR freqs., the Ham radio had not been 'type accepted' specifically for SAR freqs., so was illegal to use on those freqs.

In other words, if your FT-867D has not been tested and approved by the FCC for use on CB frequencies, it is illegal to use it on CB frequecies.

articulate

01-15-2008, 08:28 PM

DaveInDenver

01-15-2008, 09:22 PM

Curious: What's the benefit here?

If you can make your HAM radio transmit on 11 meters and get into some dude's CB radio in a Jeep . . . that doesn't mean he can talk to you (due to the lower transmit power on his radio). I suppose you could tx your coords and just hope it hits somebody - but you may not know if it does. Or you could be working on hitting the nearest repeater on a band your radio is manufactured to transmit on. Right?
For the CB thing, I think the majority of people simply want one radio in their truck. Nothing sinister beyond that.

The freebanding comes from a section of the FCC rules that is not clearly defined and so in the interest of planning and covering all your bases people often wonder if they could just call the fire department directly or get help if they are in a bad way. I think for the most part it's also just a natural urge to be prepared, no intent to break any laws or anything.

In the end, I do think your best option is using a VHF or UHF ham repeater for an emergency auto patch or just to contact another ham. I think that going through the right channel (911 either by cell or radio patch-thru) is actually more likely to get the response you need. Imagine the confusion it will create if you call on a police dispatcher's frequency. By the time they validate you and your problem and get actual help to you, it probably would have been better just walking a couple of hours to a place where you could get a ham signal or cell phone coverage.

The one argument that someone made to me about freebanding your radio would be once you made contact, then you can talk to anyone you might need to. For example, a helo to coordinate a rescue, relay your location to a SAR team, whatever. But the problem in my view is that it's not possible to have every single band, know all frequencies and modes on one radio. Antennas have limited bandwidth, there are different modes, different PL or DCS tones, etc. So unless you can practice these things in a non-emergency situation, you don't really know if it's even gonna work, what your range really is and IMHO it can't really be counted on. So that's my take, just understand how what you have works and practice within those criteria rather than being distracted with all the what-ifs and maybes.

edgear

01-15-2008, 09:59 PM

Once you go VHF...
I think I recall BajaTaco saying "Once you go 2M, there's nothing sweeter!" (but correct me if I'm wrong, Chris).

I will put together a little handheld with a mag-mount antenna just for the rare instance I need one.
I actually have the same setup. Good for those instances when others are on CB and not 2M. I also carry a few FRS handhelds for the same reason, which I prefer over the CB.

gary in ohio

01-16-2008, 12:53 PM

Also keep in mind that that "10" meter ham radio is not only illegal to use on CB, it most likley is an export radio and cant legally be sold as a ham radio in the US either since it doesnt have part 15 certification for US sales.

CB radio on the highway is good for about 2 mile range, Out in the open away from the RF noise, 5 miles. a "LEGAL" 4watt $25 radio is going to talk as far as a "LEGAL" 4 watt $250 radio. features is what you pay for, often the $25, $50 and $100 version of a radio use the same circuit boards and only populate the boards for the pricelevel of the features. The Transmitter and receiver boards are exactly the same.

Scenic WonderRunner

01-16-2008, 09:36 PM

I'm kind of disappointed that the....."Best CB Radio Set Up" thread .....has turned into a.......

2 meter ham radio is better....etc. kinda thread.

CB Radio is not as good as ham radio. I admit that right here and now.

But CB Radio will only be as good as you make it. When you observe the fact that Only 4 watts is legal........then the only way to make your CB put out better, is to buy the best quality CB Antenna you can find, and set the swr perfect.....then maybe one needs to pay attention.

I have an old 1976 EF Johnson CB Radio that I've been using for 30+ years. Once I upgraded to a quality antenna and tuned it with an swr meter.....the results were Amazing! My radio now puts out better than it Ever has before.

I live in north county San Diego which has hills everywhere. I can talk to Santee 20+ miles to my south from my driveway at home over hills. I can also talk to Valley Center 35 miles north of me over the hills. In a flat desert I have talked 60+ miles. I have even shot skip to Bakersfield, CA. from Kayenta, Arizona and had a conversation. From the Top of the World Trail near Moab, Utah I have talked to well West of Green River over 60+ miles and clear into Colorado the same distance.

It's most frustrating to me that when I am on a group run.....no one knows or understands that you must have a quality antenna and tune the swr perfect, to be able to communicate beyond 2 miles or however bad they think CB Radio's are.

Here is a link to my rescue from the Panamint Mountains.....which proves that my CB Radio went long distance....even through a deep canyon...... and saved me from the "Long Walk".

http://www.panamintvalley.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=3472

There is a 2 Meter Yaesu (http://www.universal-radio.com/) I have my eye on for as little as $119 bucks. And a simple mag mount antenna can be had for under $20 bucks. No big deal. I've only been on a trail Once.......with folks that had 2 meter radios. But they also had CB's. Almost everyone I have gone on the trail with has Only had a CB Radio. And Yes....they have always been frustrated with it. But it does not have to be that way!

I am interested in 2 Meter and the whole concept of repeaters....etc. I think that's very kewl. One day I will get a 2 Meter. But I will also Always have a CB Radio in my truck. It's most useful, including while travelling on the interstate, while trying to get to your dirt destination. In fact....a good call from a wise trucker can even save your life. I'm serious!

Maybe because I have been saved by my CB Radio....I feel a bit more passionate about it. Please do not take this post as being an upset post. I'm not upset. I simply hope to inform those that have CB Radio's and who are unhappy with them.....that the problem can be fixed!

I just think there is more than enough room in our trucks for both 2 Meter and CB Radios to accommodate all who wish to travel with us.

A hand held with an 8" rubber ducky will have you swearing at your CB Radio! I Promise!

Please do not take this as an angry, upset post..........it is Not!

I only wish to inform. If anyone has a question about how to make their CB put out farther....feel free to send me a PM.......hopefully, I can find links to sites that can help you understand and fix the problem.

http://www.wilsonantenna.com/w5000.htm<~ The Wilson 5000 is over 65% larger than the famous Wilson 1000

http://www.wilsonantenna.com/w1000.htm <~ Tests by Lockheed show the Wilson 1000 has 58% more power gain than the K40

Setting the SWR................ (http://www.wilsonantenna.com/tsswrg.htm)

Radio Wave Propagation............. (http://home.att.net/~wizardoz/cbmw/rwpropag.html)

I want to add to my post to make it clear that although I have talked 60+ miles on my CB on a clear night many times, one must not think that this can be consistantly done with 11 meter. If one studies the links I have posted in this thread, then one will notice that there are things we can do to help give our CB Radios optimum performance.

For better and more reliable communication in the outback, a ham radio would be a positive addition to anyones expedition rig.

.

Cabrito

01-16-2008, 09:57 PM

I'm kind of disappointed that the....."Best CB Radio Set Up" thread .....has turned into a.......

2 meter ham radio is better....etc. kinda thread.

Most excellent post! It's nice to hear some good things about CB - Although I am a ham I can totally see the benifits of CB - And great post on the Panamint Valley forum!

..

AndrewP

01-16-2008, 11:59 PM

Let's face it, radios are fun. Even CB radios. They can get you out of a nasty mess. Even CB radios. It is way better to have a CB radio, than no radio, as Scenic Wonderrunner illustrates very well.

With that said, even setting up my CB carefully with a good antenna, I've never really had great radio experiences with it. It was good enough for a trail run and that's about it.

But since this is an Expedition Forum, and not a 4 wheeling forum, Ham radio is just more germain to the discussion. It's better in every way. I can say that without bashing CB. The trick is having all of your travel friends switch to Ham as well, and your ability to reliably communicate increases 10 fold or more. Using just the Simplex side of things, reliable range can really be astounding-50 miles is common and over 100 is possible. And that's with a clear signal and minimal interference. Add a repeater to the mix and you can be region wide in an instant. There are so many frequencies, that it is easy to find one that has no other traffic on it.

That's why people are so quick to point out the Ham radios obvious advantages, especially given the relatively low prices for excellent equiptment--example Yaesu 2800 for $110. you arn't talking a lot more money, but you are getting a lot more radio.

So the "best" CB radio is probably a cheap radio or handheld coupled to a decent or better antenna like a Wilson 5000. That maximizes the performance and minimizes your investment. In use, though, the limitations become immediately obvious, and will prompt you to step up to real radio, as soon as you can take the test.

brettf

01-25-2008, 12:50 AM

I am almost embarrassed to post in this thread because I'm going to ask probably the most dumb questions ever and there has been a lot of great info posted here.

And maybe there is a good resource you can point me to that will answer my question(s) and then some.

But. Again. Noob question. Why are there different "meters?" Is this wavelength?

Why are CBs and HAM radios different? Do they operate on different frequencies? I'm guessing this is the case.

Is a "free banded" radio as posted above a radio that can hit ALL frequencies free of restrictions? Is this illegal because some frequencies are reserved by the FCC for certain uses (air traffic, police, fire, etc...).

Scanners are essentially free-banded radios without the ability to transmit, correct? So these are able to pickup a large range of frequencies? Can a scanner pick up CB? HAM? Police?

Thanks - this thread is timely and helpful. I just installed my first cheap-o CB radio and antenna in my truck. I'll be working to eliminate my engine noise because I have a ton. I suspect that my ground isn't so good... But on the upside, I can hear the engine reving through the speakers and make it sound like the truck has more juice than it really does ;)

gary in ohio

01-25-2008, 03:22 PM

But. Again. Noob question. Why are there different "meters?" Is this wavelength?
Meter is just one way to identify a frequency, when you hear meter think or a band or range of frequencies, not just a channel or single frequency.
CB radio is 11 meters and is approx 26m to 27.5mhz (million cycle)
Ham radio has many bands and covers from 160 meters up into the cm band.
Ham radio 10 meter goes from 28mhz to 30 mhz.
ham radio 2m goes from approx

Why are CBs and HAM radios different? Do they operate on different frequencies? I'm guessing this is the case.

They are different services and regulated differently.

Is a "free banded" radio as posted above a radio that can hit ALL frequencies free of restrictions? Is this illegal because some frequencies are reserved by the FCC for certain uses (air traffic, police, fire, etc...).

Freeband is a generic term and depends on where your at as to how its used. Typically when talking about cb and ham radio, freeband radio are ham radios being used on the CB band. They are often used on frequencies between the 11m and 10meter band. In some context freeband radio is any radio converted to as service it was not intended for. Every electronic device, transmitter or receiver must be certified by the fcc, for non transmitting devices they must have part 15 certification which basisly says, good engineer practices were used in making this radio and this radio may not generate interference but MUST accept inference from licensed services.
Anything else that transmit (except ham radio) will need to be certified into some FCC license class, business band, public safety, CB, FRS, GMRS. There are a HUGE number of rules that need to be met for radio to be certified.

Scanners are essentially free-banded radios without the ability to transmit, correct? So these are able to pickup a large range of frequencies? Can a scanner pick up CB? HAM? Police?

No scanners are not freeband. freeband applies to transmitters. A scanner can pickup whatever is on the frequency the scanner covers. Some scanners only cover a small number of bands, some more. Generally you can receive ham radio, possible police depending on what equipment your police are using. to transmit and the type of scanner you have.

Scenic WonderRunner

01-28-2008, 12:07 AM

Welcome brettf............

All good questions. Here is a good site with a world of radio Info!

Ham Radio and Freeband............ (http://www.eham.net/articles/6674)

Once at the link.....scroll down and see the chat. You can search around the site for answers to other questions.

.

TACODOC

01-28-2008, 03:17 AM

brettf

01-28-2008, 04:13 AM

Clark White

01-28-2008, 04:41 AM

So pardon my ignorance, but besides CB or FRS/GMRS, what are the most common freq's used by this community? I've been looking at getting another radio to go with my CB, but I have limited funds, so I would like to cover the widest freq range possible, and in the most used range. Any suggestions on radios?

TACODOC

01-28-2008, 05:27 AM

Clark White

01-28-2008, 05:35 AM

Thx! :26_34_3:

Clark White

01-28-2008, 06:25 AM

MIDLAND # 79-290

AM-USB/LSB-Weather
40 Channel CB w/ Side Band
120 channel operation (USB-AM-LSB)
7 channel US/3 channel Canadian weather receiver
Detachable control panel for added security
Black Matrix LCD display with choice of channel number or frequency readout
4 channel memory plus instant ch. 9
Feature packed! RF gain, mic gain, dual watch, fine/coarse and MORE
For more info please download our manual

http://www.midlandradio.com/comersus/store/catalog/79-290.jpg

[/COLOR]

Ok, another question. I was looking at this radio, and it says it has SSB capability w/12w output, and 4w output am. The only frequency ranges listed are CB channels, so is it putting out 12w SSB on CB channels? If your in SSB, can others hear you with normal AM CB's?

gary in ohio

01-28-2008, 01:44 PM

Ok, another question. I was looking at this radio, and it says it has SSB capability w/12w output, and 4w output am. The only frequency ranges listed are CB channels, so is it putting out 12w SSB on CB channels? If your in SSB, can others hear you with normal AM CB's?
YOU have only 40 cb channels. SSB and AM are modulation methods, or ways to put voice onto a channel. SSB is broken down in upper and lower side band. and take 1/2 a channel where AM takes up the entire channel. SSB is typically used above channel 23 and often above channel 30, AM is pretty much the norm on the lower channels but SSB or AM can be used on any of the 40 channels.
Dont let the 4 vs 12 watts throw you. You get the extra power by using a signal that narrower. if you listen to SSB on an AM radio it has a donald duck sound to it

Clark White

01-28-2008, 04:38 PM

Scenic WonderRunner

02-01-2008, 03:06 AM

So with that set up you would really be able to reach out and touch someone for a CB. That would really only do you any good if you were talking to someone else with a similar setup, other wise it would be a rather one sided conversation.

Clark...........

I think that radio has been discontinued now........... it was a Really Kewl Radio though..........Oh Well.........!

With SSB.........you will definately put out farther. But you need a buddy on the trail that also has a SSB CB Radio....and an agreed upon channel to meet up at. You can always start at Channel #4 or whatever............then you can say.....go up to.....channel #4 Upper Sideband. Now you can talk much farther.

With my simple stock Johnson Radio and my Wilson 1000....with my SWR set Perfect!......I'm talking consistantly 20+ miles in the desert (up to 60+ miles). If anyone is with me on the trails......with an underperforning antenna.....we are lucky if we can talk 1 to 2 miles or even less. That's when they say they hate their CB Radio. Oh Well......!

Scenic WonderRunner

02-01-2008, 10:25 PM

Although I have a longing for a 2M and am studying for my exam...

I STILL ENJOY MY CB!!!

On that note, part of my ultimate CB setup is the recent acquisition of a Wilson Trucker 5000 :)

Your setup will only be as good as your antenna, and the 5000 is the real deal.

I got tired of worrying about breaking my Firestik at the bank drive-through!

Great Choice there Doc!

We ought to do a distance talk test sometime. We might just get some folks to start luvin' CB Radio's....again!:26_7_2:

http://www.wilsonantenna.com/t5000.htm (http://www.wilsonantenna.com/t5000.htm)

http://www.wilsonantenna.com/t5000art.htm

http://www.wilsonantenna.com/NTEarticle2.jpg

gary in ohio

02-02-2008, 02:04 AM

Great Choice there Doc!

We ought to do a distance talk test sometime. We might just get some folks to start luvin' CB Radio's....again!:26_7_2:

The article is nice, but has not technical specs that can be compared against other antenna's. Handling 20,000 watt is worthless info, you only legal on 12watts, VERY few have 20kw. Being able to get the SWR to 1.1 is another worthless fact. How about gain figures, How about something that can be measured against other antennas. The web site has a "Q" measurement but again its worthless info.

Scenic WonderRunner

02-02-2008, 02:22 AM

The article is nice, but has not technical specs that can be compared against other antenna's. Handling 20,000 watt is worthless info, you only legal on 12watts, VERY few have 20kw. Being able to get the SWR to 1.1 is another worthless fact. How about gain figures, How about something that can be measured against other antennas. The web site has a "Q" measurement but again its worthless info.

It's not my article....Gary.

It's just links and info from the Wilson website......which was "ON Topic" with what TACODOC said above.......and he really seems to like his Wilson Antenna!

Obviously your CB Radio is just not working for you.....and you don't like CB Radios..........I'm sorry........so the answer is simple. Just stop using it. They are junk! Right?

It's real simple..........just search the net...........don't ask me.....what the heck do I know!

One example/link...........
http://www.rfwiz.com/WilsonSilverLoad.htm

I think it's high time for a long distance test!

In Fact.......go over to PanamintValley.com and ask "B~Spec" if we did not talk over 20+ miles this past August 2007 while I was in a canyon heading down from Briggs cabin. Nobody else in my group could hear B~Spec or talk to him except me! He was way past Trona on the way to Ridgecrest. And guess what.........he has a Wilson 1000 with the SWR tuned perfect.....just like me! A quality antenna with the SWR set Perfect. Oh My!

.

cruiseroutfit

02-02-2008, 04:06 AM

Can't remembered if I have weighed in before, but I will now.

CB's are a thing of the past IMO, almost a relic that some continue to cling to :D I've been into them since I was 12, had an antenna on the roof of my parents house (magnetic whip attached to the swamp cooler). I could hit the interstate up to 10 miles on a very good day. I was using a 15W? Midland 23 channel base station, with USB & LSB, rarely did I ever find someone on the side bands. I've always had one in my rigs, mostly because it was the "protocol" amongst group runs. More and more when I'm out on trips, its either the FRMS or the HAM. Sorry, even the most well tuned CB is only as good as the other guys. HAM's don't seem to have nearly the tuning deficiencies that every single CB I know has. We're luck to get a 5 mile range with the CB's on club runs and such, the FRMS radios are nearly as good.

I know Scenic Wonder Runner has had some good results (60 miles???) but even 20 miles is the exception rather than the rule. Even an improperly tuned mobile HAM on simplex is getting that... add a tuned setup and you easily double it, consider repeaters and the distance is multiplied. I'm relatively new to the HAM scene (2 yrs), but I wouldn't recommend anyone spend $100 on a CB setup when another $100 and a time commitment will get you a far superior setup IMO. I'll likely always have a CB in my rigs, I do enough with different groups that it will likely never be eliminated... but if I had my choice everyone would be running the F/GMRS units or HAM... cleaner reception that doesn't leave you scratching your head after each broadcast.

Scenic WonderRunner

02-02-2008, 04:15 AM

Good job Kurt.............

You have single handedly.........once again.........turned the "Best CB Radio Set Up" thread............into a bashing CB and a 2 meter is better thread.

Good job.

cruiseroutfit

02-02-2008, 04:39 AM

Good job Kurt.............

You have single handedly.........once again.........turned the "Best CB Radio Set Up" thread............into a bashing CB and a 2 meter is better thread.

Good job.

Thanks, I try...

Sorry everyones opinion doesn't fit in a cookie cutter :oops: Sometimes the "best setup" is something different, and sometimes someone elses opionion, is as valuable as your own ;) I wasn't bashing the CB, I was simply point out its faults. Why the need for a one-sided slanted approach?

Your "above average" results needed to be disputed IMO. I don't know a single CB user that has EVER had a 60 mile contact, to say a "properly setup" CB will get you similar distances is misleading IMO. If I were to go out and buy a CB based on your results, I would be a dissatisfied user.

As for tarnishing the thread... ask the original poster if he cares... oh thats right, he started the bashing ;)

Scenic WonderRunner

02-02-2008, 04:52 AM

Kurt...........

At the risk of sounding unkind......which I do not wish to do.

Why are you here in the "Best CB Radio Set Up" Thread............if you do not like CB Radios and you think they are junk? I'm confused.

I have great results with my set up because I bought a quality CB antenna and properly tuned it. I have no problem communicating with others who have done the same.

Now if others on the trail are not aware of the importance of a quality antenna and properly tuned...........then we are lucky to talk 1 to 2 miles as said above many times. My hope is.....that this thread can help those who love their CB Radio's and use it frequently on the trails.

And..............I didn't even start this thread............I'm just trying to help with my own personal experience!

MountainBiker

02-02-2008, 04:58 AM

I would also like this thread to stay on topic. Lots of great info here for setting up a CB properly!

cruiseroutfit

02-02-2008, 04:59 AM

...Why are you here in the "Best CB Radio Set Up" Thread............if you do not like CB Radios and you think they are junk? I'm confused...

Please don't put words into my mouth, nowhere in my posts will you see me call them junk, nor will you find me saying I don't like them... I simply stated that there are better alternatives. Choices are king... to be so closed-minded about life is a sad place to be.

...I have great results with my set up because I bought a quality CB antenna and properly tuned it. I have no problem communicating with others who have done the same.

And that fine and dandy, you can be waiting for the next 7 year cycle of the sunspot to skip your signal hundereds of miles (though doing so would be illegal). I'm simply stating that there is better technology out there without the limitations. I don't have a vested interest in HAM radios, I just think everyone should know the options before they spend a bunch of money on a system that has know drawbacks.

...And..............I didn't even start this thread............I'm just trying to help with my own personal experience!

Again, please read my posts... I never said you started the thread, I said the person that did was the one that took the thread in the opposite direction, I simply agreed and added my opinion. Neither here nor there, but usually the tone of a thread is decided by the original poster, if he/she doesn't mind dialogue for and against... who are you to decide what makes valid content? The topic was changed by the one that chose the topic (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=153476&postcount=91) ;)

I'll leave it at that if you can...

Scenic WonderRunner

02-02-2008, 05:04 AM

Oh Brother!

Am I still on ExPo...........

Or did I somehow mistakenly hit some wrong key?

Somebody please help me!!!!

.

cruiseroutfit

02-02-2008, 05:13 AM

Oh Brother!

Am I still on ExPo...........

Or did I somehow mistakenly hit some wrong key?

Somebody please help me!!!!

.

I'm sorry I don't live up to your ExPo expectations by offering a different opinion, had I read past Scotts reply before I posted my opinion I might have responded differently... I read through to his post (and dozens others referring to HAM) and I replied as it spurred my though. Have a great night...

Scenic WonderRunner

02-02-2008, 05:15 AM

I would also like this thread to stay on topic. Lots of great info here for setting up a CB properly!

I must say............this has to be one of the best quotes in this entire thread!

.

cruiseroutfit

02-02-2008, 05:24 AM

I must say............this has to be one of the best quotes in this entire thread!

I prefer this one ;)

...Everyone I travel with on a regular basis has 2M, which is so superior, I cant even imagine trying to use CB again...

Sorry, I just had to... :shakin:

I'm honestly not trying to hash this out with you. I can agree to disagree. Again... I figured since the thread originator took it a different direction, it was OK. I can respect your wishes to keep it otherwise.

To stay on topic... I have been really happy with my Cobra 75WXST, in combination with a Maxrad NMO mount antenna. I've got a "junction unit" mounted in both of my regular rigs, I simply move the mic/control unit back and forth between rigs, and take it out when I won't be using them for some time. I especially like this in my FJ40, with the top of 6-7 months a year, it really opens itself up to "snatch and grab" thefts. With the Cobra I can toss the mic. unit into the lockable console in just a few seconds and not have to worry about it. I've had this same radio in my older Tacoma, worked great other than one minor fire (seriously). Cobra was really good about the warranty and it was still working when the truck went to a new home :D

Ursidae69

02-02-2008, 02:06 PM

We will always have CB radios, but many of us are switching over to amateur radio because we like it.

No need to get into a heated argument, we can just post up what CB setup works for us and what doesn't. I can tell you that my cobra 75wxst radio and firestick antenna are a terrible combo, but it's good enough for car to car transmission when in a caravan and that is good enough since I use it maybe once a year.

DaveInDenver

02-02-2008, 02:49 PM

I can tell you that my cobra 75wxst radio and firestick antenna are a terrible combo
This is primarily the antenna. I've never been a fan of Firestik type antennas, they are a compromise at best. I don't have a problem with the brand, they seem well made and are a stand-up company AFAIK. Just a wound antenna like that is not very good from a performance aspect. Naturally with a 4WD you have to be concerned with how well it will take impacts and banging around, so from that standpoint they make sense. But when you're talking purely performance, they're not so good.

Ursidae69

02-02-2008, 02:52 PM

This is primarily the antenna. I've never been a fan of Firestik type antennas, they are a compromise at best. I don't have a problem with the brand, they seem well made and are a stand-up company AFAIK. Just a wound antenna like that is not very good from a performance aspect. Naturally with a 4WD you have to be concerned with how well it will take impacts and banging around, so from that standpoint they make sense. But when you're talking purely performance, they're not so good.

Yeah, you're right Dave. It's been on my to-do list for 2 years now to get a better antenna. When the weather warms up. (I keep putting it off, LOL)

gary in ohio

02-02-2008, 04:43 PM

It's not my article....Gary.
It's just links and info from the Wilson website......which was "ON Topic" with what TACODOC said above.......and he really seems to like his Wilson Antenna!
Obviously your CB Radio is just not working for you.....and you don't like CB Radios..........I'm sorry........so the answer is simple. Just stop using it. They are junk! Right?
.
Never said it was your article I simply pointed out the article had no technical merit to show its a better antenna. As for CB not working for me, CB has its place and does well for that. My dad got a CB license in 62 right after the CB band was carved out of the 10m ham band. I was active during 70 hey day of CB and have had a CB in my vehicle for over 30 years. CB as a general communication medium is close to worthless in many areas, Ch 19 once a great spot to listen for traffic and safety tips is now awash with vulgar language, racist BS and over modulated, echo driven signals that are almost impossible to understand. WHY people think over modulation or echo will get the signal further is beyond me.

Now if you have small group of traveling buddies off on your own channel it can be very useful, but finding a channel that isnt filled with rubbish is hard now a days.

CB still has its place but using for that purpose is getting hard and harder due to the those who feel the rules where not ment for them. People somehow feel that license free means no rules and its hardly the issue. CB rules just like every other radio service and if people followed them then CB would be once what it was.

Scenic WonderRunner

02-02-2008, 07:06 PM

This site seems to have good easy question and answer info....all on one page.

http://www.advancedspecialties.net/cb-radio-faq.htm <~Clickit

Some important points I see there are "Ground Plane"...... "Antenna Size"......."Antenna Placement".

.

Scenic WonderRunner

02-02-2008, 07:50 PM

Mobile Antenna Placement.............

http://www.olypen.com/craigh/antennab.htm

"If you desire maximum range and performance from your CB, then you do not want to compromise the radiator, and you will need to consider mounting a full ¼ wave antenna somewhere... but your choices are few. The bumper is probably the poorest location for an antenna you can find, because the body blocks too much of the radiator, and usually gives a bad SWR (you might as well have a shorter loaded antenna where it will do some good). Mounting it on a tire carrier or on the front of a brush guard will work okay, but isn't a good coupling to the GP. So for the best performance that only leaves the roof (best performance, but not strong enough for a 1/4 wave whip), or high on the rear quarter panel."

Setting the SWR.............. (http://www.wilsonantenna.com/tsswrg.htm)

Setting the SWR......... (http://www.bellscb.com/cb_radio_hobby/swr.html)

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0512JacumbaMtnsBorderFen0064.jpg

alfio

10-25-2010, 06:19 PM

"If you desire maximum range and performance from your CB, then you do not want to compromise the radiator, and you will need to consider mounting a full ¼ wave antenna somewhere... but your choices are few. The bumper is probably the poorest location for an antenna you can find, because the body blocks too much of the radiator, and usually gives a bad SWR (you might as well have a shorter loaded antenna where it will do some good). Mounting it on a tire carrier or on the front of a brush guard will work okay, but isn't a good coupling to the GP. So for the best performance that only leaves the roof (best performance, but not strong enough for a 1/4 wave whip), or high on the rear quarter panel."

(bringing this thread back...)

this is the key section in a very clearly written piece (seems to be a rarity in all things antenna and/or cb related).

for those of us with pickup trucks -- especially if we use the bed for loading stuff -- the only option seems to be to mount the antenna somewhere on the front, either on the bullbar (if we have one) or on the inner fender/hood. does one location offer better performance than the other?