Switching to 2m

birdmann

Observer
With the need for long range coms being not nearly met with cb, I'm switching to 2m ham. I have decided on the icom v8000. Not sure on what antenna yet. going to be mounting it on my 2007 4runner. the antenna mount is a CBI offroad ditch light bracket in front of the drivers a pillar. My question is this; Is the v8000 going to meet my needs? I need to be able to reach out for help where cell phones and other means are far out of reach. would a souped up 10m be a better route? any info is helpful. I'm new to ham, still studying for the test.
 

crawler#976

Expedition Leader
While a HAM radio is a great tool for what you want to do, there are better means of getting help in a true emergency. Take your choice, SPOT, EPERB, PLB, Sat phone, all are better than a HAM radio.

That said, what you have planned will do very well if you do the planning before trips. You need to have a list of repeaters and coverage for the area you plan to go to.

http://rptr.amateur-radio.net/ is free on the web.

The ARRL has an app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.arrl.repeaterdirectory&hl=en

Mark
 

birdmann

Observer
While a HAM radio is a great tool for what you want to do, there are better means of getting help in a true emergency. Take your choice, SPOT, EPERB, PLB, Sat phone, all are better than a HAM radio.

That said, what you have planned will do very well if you do the planning before trips. You need to have a list of repeaters and coverage for the area you plan to go to.

http://rptr.amateur-radio.net/ is free on the web.

The ARRL has an app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.arrl.repeaterdirectory&hl=en

Mark

I couldn't agree with you more. BUT the idea here is to have multiple options, In the event that equipment fails. A spot sat phone is also on the list. Thanks for the links.
 

Crom

Expo this, expo that, exp
While a HAM radio is a great tool for what you want to do, there are better means of getting help in a true emergency. Take your choice, SPOT, EPERB, PLB, Sat phone, all are better than a HAM radio.

That said, what you have planned will do very well if you do the planning before trips. You need to have a list of repeaters and coverage for the area you plan to go to.

http://rptr.amateur-radio.net/ is free on the web.

The ARRL has an app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.arrl.repeaterdirectory&hl=en

Mark
Fully agree.

For the OP, It doesn't matter that much what 2M radio or antenna combo you choose, as long as it's installed right and functions correctly. I generally do recommend a 1/2 wave antenna though. Seems to be the best compromise for most situations.
 

birdmann

Observer
Pulled the trigger on the v8000. I also picked up a diamond multi band antenna that will get up and over the roof line. Hopefully I'll have time to take the test next week. also on order is a fancy spot SAT phone.
 

crawler#976

Expedition Leader
If you're anywhere near Prescott, AZ., I have the equipment to test your rig once it's installed. Proper tuning makes a huge difference.

Sent via gigawatt laser...
 

verdesardog

Explorer
Pulled the trigger on the v8000. I also picked up a diamond multi band antenna that will get up and over the roof line. Hopefully I'll have time to take the test next week. also on order is a fancy spot SAT phone.

I've had a V8000 for many years using it with a mag mount 5/8 antenna in the center of the roof of my truck. Works great!
I really like the mag mount cause if I get in low trees it just falls over instead of getting damaged.

DSC_4016.jpg
 
Last edited:

BigSwede

The Credible Hulk
Around here you'd be jumping out of your truck every 20 feet to reset your antenna. Not such a problem in AZ I suppose. I have a 1/2 wave on my bullbar, hasn't taken many hits there.
 

Kiddmen57

Supporting Sponsor
If you're anywhere near Prescott, AZ., I have the equipment to test your rig once it's installed. Proper tuning makes a huge difference.

Sent via gigawatt laser...

Mark,

Would the tuning be quick nought to perform at the OJ open house? I'll have mine all installed and wired up by that time, but have no idea how to tune it or even equipment is needed.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
 

birdmann

Observer
Thanks mark! I'll be in MN until October, then I'm heading back to TX. Planning a moab trip for this winter. AZ is also on my list. Any tips for me before hand?
 

Dougherty03

New member
You need to be aware of exposure to RF with an antenna setup there. 65-75 watts from an antenna 2 feet away with nothing but glass could cause harm to you.
 

jkosten

Observer
You need a good ground plane for it to work properly. Yhe center of your roof is best, or get something with a ground plane kit.

sent from my pocket...
 

birdmann

Observer
I'm getting pretty good receive from where its at right now. I'm not terribly worried about rf exposure. If I start getting weird headaches I'll move the antenna lol. Surprisingly enough, the shape of my vehicle and where the antenna is placed, I don't think its affecting signal strength much.
 

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