Easily removed CB radio install

I did this yesterday but ran out of time for pictures. Installed the CB radio and antenna. I previously had mounted a 2m ham rig and that is what I use 90% of the time and this is an additional radio install for when hunting and offroading, the CB comes in really handy. I previously was running a Wilson Lil-Wi mag mount with a

$100 Midland 75-822 40 Channel CB-Way Radio

Midland 75-822 CB because it could be removed easily when not in use. BUT, the antenna on the roof hit everything and I have scratches on the roof where it grabbed a limb and slid back about a foot. I also couldn't run both a CB and the 2m HAM rig since the antennas would conflict and mess up SWR.

So, here is the new and improved install. Still can be pulled out easily when not needed, but a much more robust installation. I live about 4 miles from 295 and about 6 miles west of 95 and can hit truckers on both roads with ease. I'm pleased with the install and the antenna SWR (1.2:1 or less across band).

One thing to note and is probably a big part of the great SWR is my tonneau cover is aluminum and I bonded all three pieces to each other, then bonded the center section to ground of the truck. That's a big slab of flat ground plane for the antenna!

Radio: Uniden Bearcat 988SS
Antenna: Firestik II 4'
Coax: Firestik FireRing with EZ connector
Mount: BAMF tailgate/fender mount on passenger side. Purchased bare, sprayed with Rustoleum Bedliner.

I ran the coax along an existing wire harness along right-side frame rail. I entered the cab through a grommet that is about in the middle of the passenger rear floor and came through the carpet under the passenger seat. The 18' cable was just right in length, very little extra length.

I'm not 100% convinced that the mount is all that sturdy. It moves around by hand pretty easily. I'm thinking about how I can make it stiffer but for now it'll do.

I already had power coming out the center console for the HAM rig and a second feed line to a power port. I tapped into the power port feed and attached a quick connect. Then attached the opposite side of the quick connect to the radio's power cable. All connections are soldered and shrink wrapped. No twist nuts or tape used!

I used industrial Velcro, 2" wide and attached two strips of the loop (smooth) side to the center console. I'm not sure how the glue is going to hold up in Florida, but I can use a better glue if it doesn't stay. The radio got two strips of the hook (the prickly part) attached and the radio is SOLID. I did use a right angle PL-259 connector on the coax line to relieve any strain on the cable.

I tuned everything up using an antenna analyzer, then a final check with the radio. So far, I'm happy with the install. To remove all I need it unscrew the antenna from the mount, pull coax, power and speaker connections from radio and it's out. Takes maybe 5 minutes to install and 2 minutes to remove. I do put a bolt into the antenna base to keep moisture out when not in use.

Antenna:


Mount:


Radio:


Speaker:


Velcro:


Coax entry point:

 

Looks nice!

I did pretty much the same thing. I like the velcro idea though. I may have to borrow that one for mine! I am also getting some quick disconnects (power pulls) for quicker removal.

 

I had a tail mount like that on my 86, it worked fine - always smacked the signs on the underground parkade through.

Now I've got the cb on the front;



Why do you think you're 2m and CB were interfering? Mine are across the hood from easy other with no problem on either..

 

I had the problem when they were running on Magmounts on the roof. I think they were too close and the coax was also running close together. Now, they both work harmoniously together if I choose to.

I won't leave the CB installed as a general rule though so smacking garages or tree limbs won't be a problem unless I'm wheeling or hunting.