Coax cable length

I want to mount a CB radio in my center console, with an antenna mounted on the hood opposite the stereo antenna using a light pod mount. I think this is my preferred location since I'm going to be running a cap and don't want a roof mount.

How much coax will I need? Will 9' do the job, or should I get 18' to make sure I'm covers and just deal with and excess length?

Thanks

 

That’s a tough one. I might try to run your wire route with an old piece of wire, maybe a phone cord or Ethernet wire, or even a piece of string if you’ve got some laying around. Get it routed exactly where you want the coax to go, and mark the end. Then pull it out and measure

 

That's probably the wise and patient way to do it. I'll get the antenna mount, antenna, and radio all installed as I want them. Then I'll "connect the dots" with some scrap wire or tubing and measure as you describe before I order the coax.

I keep thinking I might as well go with the 18' in case I change plans later, but that's pretty unlikely and I've read that as a general rule you shouldn't use more coax than you need other than it may be best to adhere to the common lengths (9, 18...). I could always just order a longer length if needed later.

Anyway, thanks for the solid advice.

 

Coax cable seems to be one of those weird things no one can agree on. Some say you need the 18 foot one since thats part of the length of the wave, some say a 9 foot is fine, others say cut it to the length you need.

I have a 18 foot, and its coiled up under my carpet... people say this is also bad... I plan to cut mine this summer to the actual length I need. Im not looking to get super long range on my CB, 1 mile would be more than enough for my uses.