HAM Radio Install/Antenna Mount!!

Mainly tracking. I have sent and received messages via APRS.

 

Scosche MAGDMB MagicMount

 

I use a Mobilnkd bluetooth TNC connected to my FT-8800R and run APRSdroid on my Android phone for both tracking and messaging. We did a week long trip in South Central Utah last month with three other hams and almost no cell phone coverage. We all ran APRS and it made things so much easier.

 

What type of mount are you using for the Kenwood remote head? Do you have any shots of how it is mounted?

 

It's really too bad that the GPS that is feeding the Entune clock can't be used to feed the D710...

Just bought a 2017 Tacoma and thinking about where to mount my D710. The driver's side cubby mount is neat, but I don't think I could see the display down there!

VY 73 de chris K6DBG

 

Hey all !
I just picked up a laptop with win10 as the operating system . I have the the Yeasue FTM 400 dxr and want to start getting familiar with aprs.
Any suggestions on what I need to download ? Get going ?
I have no experience cept for turning the aprs on on the radio and testing it .... works. Now a laptop is added and I know nothing....
Any sound advice would be appreciated, Thanks , John

 

Yes, please, more info on this install - it looks great. I've had a D700 in my '99 Tacoma for 15 years. I'm buying a 2018 once they come out and will be installing a D710. This is a great thread, keep the info coming please! DE K7RTM 73!!

 

Those of you with a D710 that uses a separate GPS - where did you mount the GPS puck?

 

I haven't run APRS in a long time but I had the puck right behind the KC wing window inside, worked perfect.

 

Do you need to have it mounted line of sight to get the APRS? I liked where OP mounted it, but really like the messaging of APRS.

 

According to Kenwood, the unit requires a clear view of the sky for the GPS to work accurately.
Not sure if it would degrade performance located down low.

 

Nice set ups, gave me some ideas with scosche mounts. Since I'm right handed I'll go with the dash install, not to Comfy with the left side face Install . Ysesu ft8800r, glass mount dual band antenna. 73, de WP4AA.

 

Are other people also using the inverter mount space to install the main radio box for units with remote heads? I have only seen one post on TW where someone did that. The G710 body fits that spot great. Of course I have a lower trim without the inverter installed.



I almost mounted it in the space between the center console cubby (the one with the lid) and the back cover (did you know that comes off?) but ended up securing extra wire length there. Picture shows install before I changed my mind.

 

I had mine mounted in front of the shifter in that cubby with no GPS problems and now have it mounted right up against the roof of the truck next to the dome lights. No GPS issues at either location and neither has a very good direct view of open sky.

 

I also have a 2017 Tacoma and a Kenwood TM-D710G. I've been contemplating the antenna install for over a month, right now I'm running a mag mount with the coax fed down the rear window, under the truck, up through the floor grommet, into the cab, up to the transceiver. What a pain and it looks so horrible. I want a permanent mount and really wanted to put an NMO mount on the roof, but I'm afraid of messing with the headliner inside and possible leaks/rust on the roof. I really like what you did with the hood mount, I think I might go the same route. As for the head unit, I also like what you did with that, though I have the brake controller over there currently. Currently, my head unit is just sitting in the cubby in front of the shifter right now, where the wireless charger is built-in. I really like that spot, but don't like losing that cubby and wireless charging. The transceiver is mounted on the passenger side of the console, it's ok but I don't like stretching the mic to reach me. My wife thinks I'm nuts because of how much time I'm spending just "thinking" about where to mount stuff. I want good performance from the antenna, good visibility of the head unit (without disrupting airbag use) and good sound from the built-in speaker on the transceiver. Is it too much to ask? Anyhow, you've inspired me, maybe in 5 more weeks I'll make a decision, lol.

 

Do you happen to have a picture of where you have it mounted?

 

Does the body stay cool enough in there? I like it being concealed but worried about heat.

 

I've read about the glass mount, how is it? Still using it? Any reason I shouldn't go that route?

 

I have not used it enough to make a final determination, but the way I figure is that some trim levels have the inverter there and you know that will out off some heat. There are already some venting slots cut into the center console rear cover near the floor which will also help.

 

I bit the bullet and drilled an nmo hole in the roof. The trick is to drill a bit BEHIND the interior dome light (not forward of it) due to a support beam in front. Pulling wire under the headliner was not as difficult as it might sound. My main concern now is water tightness, but so far the o-ring on the nmo antenna is doing a great job. I am going to remove it and add some dialectic grease around the edge to give it an even better water seal.