Clean VHF/CB radio installs

How does the rear part of the center console come off (plate behind/under the rear cupholder)? I need to remove mine to install something, but really dont want to pull the whole console to take off that panel.

 

Just pull from the bottom, it pops right off.

 

I know what you mean on the dash, i have been working on relocating my Yaesu FT-891 from the front to the back behind the rear seats. Had to buy the radio extension kit to remotely install the radio, the screen and microphone. I am almost done, just need to get the dash mount hardware i ordered last week, and should be good to go. oh and tune in my ATAS-120a antenna. working the grounds to make sure everything works the way they are supposed to..

 

How do you like the ft-891? I really need to get back into HF. Mobile HF would be awesome.

 

Is a very good radio, good reception, clean sound. Yaesu really cramped a lot of functions in a such small radio. i've owned it for over a year and so far i have not had any issues with it only good reports.. The ATAS 120a is an ok match, i think i could have used a different antenna and get even better.. HF still live and lots of people making contacts.. 73's

 

You don't need a license to listen to your radio, only to transmit on it. Get that thing programed up and see how everything works listening to other hams so when you get your callsign you can go at it.

 

Why not just make a cable with the connectors you need on it on the cable length you need? Crimper can be had for around $15 and connectors are cheap.

 

Ha, from what I can tell it receives just fine. Haven't played with it that much. Need to sit down and spend some time.

 

Which tool are you using? I wouldn't mind picking one up.

 

I actually think I am going to just run the existing cable up through the drivers side plug which I didn't realize was there. Additionally, I have no experience with creating cables, and I'd have to dissassemble the current perfectly good mount to re-cable. I'm also at my project/research capacity.

 

Awesome thank you

 

Both of them are in this photo at the bottom. I'm at work so can't get a photo of just them. I got mine at the hamfest last year. I have been just using solder type connectors but picked these up since it's good to have more options. I bought mine from at Stone Mountain Hamfest in GA. He had the best price there for them. Even told me if I bought the kit I could save money over buying the two separate. Course I'm stubborn and when I want to crimp something didn't want to have to change the crimps out on a single handle set. The link to his fb page is the only one listed on the hamfest site so maybe send him a message and he should be able to get a set to you.

 

Here’s my radio install really didn’t want to screw into plastic so just cut a piece of wood put felt on top and bottom of it holds radio in good plus can remove it when not needed

 

What front rear camera switch is that?

 

It’s from Anytime Backup Camera.

 

Finally finished the installation of my Yaesu FT-891 mated with the ATAS 120 Antenna..

Took some of the dash apart..

Used the dash mount from Taco Garage..

ATAS 120 Antenna...

73s..

 

For the people who have antennas mounted to the rear via a [Rago/Cali Raised] bracket, how is your transmit distance? Seriously considering this option as I'm planning on getting a topper and cab rack. I'm torn between the hood and rear and if transmission distance isn't horrible on 2M,1.25M and 70CM, this will be my next project.

 

i get 5-7 miles on the interstate with a 3' fire stick.

 

Would really like some info on this bracket and how you mounted it to the bed. How's it working for you?

 

In all honesty, I don’t recall ever seeing anyone mount a vhf/uhf ham antenna out back like that. In theory, it shouldn’t perform too well due to the lack of a good ground plane. But that’s only theory. I’d suggest trying an inexpensive mag mount first back there and then compare it to various other locations. I have mine mounted on a homemade custom bracket that is behind the 3rd brake light. I actually removed the magnet on my spring whip mag mount and screwed it into the bracket. The spring works well and allows me to put the truck in the garage.