[Crete_drvr]

Originally Posted by kc0iv

I would suggest you keep using this CB shop. He/she appears to be a rare person -- HONEST.

Using matching antennas with the CORRECT matching coax a dual will give slightly better performance if the antennas are spaced 1/4 wave-lenght apart.

Creating ALL the right conditions to properly install dual antennas is NOT a easy task. While some think all it takes just adjusting the SWR and that is all. It really is a lot more than simply adjusting the SWR. Things like having the coax routed correctly and having a good ground are just a few of the many things that should be done to correctly install antennas.

My feeling is it is not worth the added expense and work needed to use a duel antenna system. I would mount the antenna on the driver's side and use the closest needed lenght coax to reach from the antenna to the CB. Make sure you have a super ground. Tune it to the Lowest SWR and use it.

I would use something in the range of a 4' - base loaded steel whip for an antenna.

I agree with you, co-phasing is not easy and IMO not worth it.

However Lockheed Martin conducted a test to see how different antenna configurations affected the transmission patterns, and they say that co-phased is the "best for highway". I use a single wilson 2000 w/ 18" shaft on the right side so it transmits strongest across the median.

[One]

Originally Posted by downsouthdriver

I have a CB question and figure I would piggyback on the thread rather than start another one. I hope no one minds. My question is how common is it for a truck to come with a CB? And if it doesn't will it at least have a spot for one and who installs it? Also what does it run for i to be installed?

Thanks.
-paul

All new trucks that I know of come with a spot for a CB, a power hookup and antenna (entenner- as some say :lol: ) connection. If not, theres a plate you can buy to mount on the dash to hold the CB.

[kc0iv]

Originally Posted by nrvsreck

Oh! It's simple! Wow, thanks man! That clears it all up then! :roll:

Sorry! I gotta be smarta** from time to time! Can't resist! But, how exactly is it "simple"? It does have a SWR switch and meter. How on earth do I calibrate it? The manual really doesn't say much.

1. Set channel to center frequency (19).
2. Set foward/reverse switch to foward.
3. Key mike.
4. Adjust SWR Cal. to mark on scale.
5. Release key.
6. Set forward/reverse switch to reverse.
7. Key mike.
8. Read SWR on scale.
9. Unkey mike.

To determine bandwidth
(A) Set channel to 1.
(B) Perform steps 2-9.
(C) Set channel to 40.
(D) Perform steps 2-9.


Hope this helps.

kc0iv

[kc0iv]

Originally Posted by Windwalker

With 2 antennas, you can not match the impedance of the coax to the output of the radio. That means "line loss". Why do you suppose so many of those guys have to have their radios PEAKED AND TUNED? They have to overcome the line-loss.

To overcome mis-matched when using twin antennes you use RG-59 coax. Sold as matching matching cable. Example: Firestik - K9A Sold by:
http://www.walcottcb.com/coax-cable-...9_143_118.html One warning DON'T try to use standard RG-59 it has a solid center and will break when used for CB use.

As far as "PEAKED AND TUNED" for the most part is a waste of money. What I've seem is most don't really make that much difference. Most shops don't have the equipment to properly tune a CB.

kc0iv

[dk132]

Originally Posted by Windwalker

Really??? I was down there last December. 19th, I believe. There was plenty of ice there then. Guys were chaining up to drive on level road. Lost count of the number of trucks wrecked in the first 35 miles from the NM line. No ice or snow??? I don't believe it was my vivid imagination.

Last December maybe but non now. :wink: I noticed it was freezing up north already. Its gonna be a cold one this year.

[Jackrabbit379]

It got down to 37,here Saturday night. :shock:

[Crete_drvr]

Originally Posted by kc0iv

As far as "PEAKED AND TUNED" for the most part is a waste of money. What I've seem is most don't really make that much difference. Most shops don't have the equipment to properly tune a CB.

SOOOO TRUE!
Most CB shops are modern-day versions of snake oil peddlers.

The only 3 I use to peak and tune up my radios are:

-Bob's CB
Strattanville, PA
I-80 exit 70

-Walcott CB
Walcott, IA
I-80 exit 284

-Clay's CB
Gordon, TX
I-20 exit 370

I save money by buying radios here on the internet by going to:

www.copper.com
www.gijoesradioelectronics.com
www.premiere-electronics.net

Walcott has terrible prices on radios but does a fantastic job of peaking and tuning.

[brian]

my otr trucks body is shaved of everything it can be including antennas, I use a tiny antenna on the back of the cab and it does its job just fine for a few miles, i`ve got 2 firesticks on my wifes local truck since my bro in law thought they`d look cool and he was my driver :roll: :lol:

[yoopr]

Originally Posted by Jackrabbit379

It got down to 37,here Saturday night. :shock:

Wish we could get up to that :P

[dk132]

It was 50 this mornig when I woke up currently 67 aahhhhhhhhhhh. Feels great Beats the 100+ days we had this summer :twisted: