Anyone have experience installing HF/VHF/UHF radios in a 2013 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab?

Interested to see if anyone here has had experience installing a HF radio in particular in a 2013 Toyota Tacoma access cab. I already have a VHF/UHF unit installed, but i've heard that i'll need to bond all the body parts together, etc, for a good ground, but wanted to check if anyone knew about the Tacoma's state as it sits from the factory. Are the body parts bonded together already? Are there any significant things I need to consider before taking on this project? I'll be installing a Kenwood TS-480SAT in the truck, hoping I can do it myself, i've already installed a system (which i've taken out to make room for the HF stuff).

From what I understand there's a 90 amp alternator in there already? I think this would be sufficient enough to run a 100w rig no? Does the Tacoma create any kind of crazy RFI? I have the V6 Prerunner SR5 model. I plan on using plain ole' hamsticks mounted to the rear bed. I ordered the antenna mounts that go in the rail system in the back (which I understand will also need to be grounded well). I'm told that this truck has a composite bed? I thought it was just a bedliner in there! lol

Any input is appreciated, thanks!

 

Who are you trying to reach with UHF/HF from the Tacoma?

 

Hi Cory,

Thanks for your reply. I'm installing a Kenwood TS-480HX & a Yaesu FTM-400DR in the Tacoma. Was just wondering if there's anything specific I need to be aware of with the Tacoma's (i.e. ignition noise, body parts not grounded, etc). My radio is a 200w radio, so I may need to install dual batteries, just not sure. Truck has a 120amp alternator.

Trying to contact the world! Installing HF mobile since I have no time for HF @ home


Thanks again,

S

 

Yeah, I'm not sure how that'll work. My experience with HF has only been with aircraft. I can't imagine the FCC is too excited about someone having a 200w mobile transmitter.

Reminds me of the Christian Slater movie Pump Up The Volume.

 

Sorry! Maybe this is a question for an amateur radio forum & not a Tacoma forum! I'll search elsewhere, thanks though.

Oh, and we're legally authorized to transmit upto 1500 watts btw So pump up the volume it is!

 

Good to know, like I said I'm not to familiar with that sort of setup. My only HF experience has been while flying, so I am uninformed on this side.

Good luck.