CB Antenna Install Options

Hello everyone, I'm new to the forum and just purchased a 2017 Tacoma SR5 V6 last weekend! One of the first things I want to do is install my cb radio from my previous vehicle. I was looking at mounting options and saw the tailgate and hood options, but I had another idea and was curious if anyone else had tried it. I do not have a tonneau cover and was wondering if the two screws used to mount the factory tonneau cover would be strong enough to mount and support a base loaded whip antenna. Also if you thought it would scratch the hell out of the back of the cab. Thanks for any information or thoughts into this idea!

 

One more thing, does anyone know if these threads for the tonneau cover are part of the bed itself more importantly, are they a solid ground?

 

No doubt you could do it. I’d make sure to sandwich it with a backing plate for the wind load. What kind of antenna do you have? Base load stainless whip?

Not properly grounded, you’d need to run a ground strap.

Hood (what I did on the hood hinge bracket) I say is the best option on these trucks. Direct shot to the interior and easy sturdy mounting.

 

Thanks for the input. I can always buy a different antenna if need be, but I currently have a Wilson 1000 mounted on the roof of my previous car. I believe it was an NMO mount going through the roof, but I would prefer not to drill through the roof of my brand new truck!

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...b-install-utilizing-tc-bed-stiffeners.508653/

This is how I did mine.

 

Makes sense! I’ve had good luck with the firestik style fiberglass antennas. And, the hood mount is easy to get above the roof with a 4’ or even a 3’ antenna. Putting a base load on the tonneau would have an adverse effect on range/quality. Most of the wire would be below your roofline on a base load. SWR out the wazoo.

 

Thanks for all of the input! I understand that base load antennas don't work well unless they're mounted on the roof. My next question is which location would be better for the strongest TX/RX, the mounts that go by the tail lights, or a hood mount? Also, drivers side or passenger side? I primarily use my CB for long trips and talking to truckers when I come across accidents on highways, not so much trail riding, so distance is important to me. Also, my CB has a few modifications, so any recommendations on a good antenna?

 

My friend tried using a linear amp once on his CB in his Taco, it made his lights dim and his cruise control accelerate whenever he keyed up his mike on high power!! (It was a linear amp that would have been frowned on by the FCC- a standard powered CB won't affect it). Good to follow the rules for sure! I just use a mag mount on the roof of the cab and run the coax in through the slider. I put some weatherstripping on the open end so I don't have to close it all the way on the coax and water can't get in (electric slider that keeps window secure from opening more even if pushed).

 

Get it up as high as you can. That's how you improve TX and RX.

I can only recommend firestik.

 

does anyone know if the bed mount bracket from caliraised will need to have antenna grounded or will the bracket be grounded thru the mounting bolts? installing a firestik firefly 4’ antenna.