Kenwood TK-805D for GMRS

[gman4661]

Thinking seriously about getting a TK-805D. A couple of questions:

1. Can I use a cigarette outlet as a power supply?

2. Any suggestions as to mounting the radio without drilling holes? Velcro maybe?

3. Any real difference in performance with a mag mount quarter wave vs. drilling a hole in the roof?

[gewecke]

Originally Posted by gman4661

Thinking seriously about getting a TK-805D. A couple of questions:

1. Can I use a cigarette outlet as a power supply?

2. Any suggestions as to mounting the radio without drilling holes? Velcro maybe?

3. Any real difference in performance with a mag mount quarter wave vs. drilling a hole in the roof?

All 3 answers are yes. IF your 805D is a DH model, then it's a high power unit and a cig lighter for a power source is not a good idea due to the current needed. Even a low power 805D is still going to want 8 or so amps so I don't suggest a lighter connection! You could use the heavy duty hook & loop tape to mount the radio, but a bracket would be best. Your antenna *could* be a mag mount but you would achieve a much better ground through a hole mount, and likely a better signal.

73 & Happy Holidays,
n9zas

[gman4661]

It's a ALHTK-805D-1, 25 watts.

[gewecke]

Originally Posted by gman4661

It's a ALHTK-805D-1, 25 watts.

Then a cig lighter should work ... as long as it's fused!
The 805D is a great little radio, I have the 805D-H and a 705D-H

73 & Happy Holidays,
n9zas

[Starion1]

1 - Yes, cigarette plug making sure it is fused, as "gewecke" mentioned previously, it should work fine.

2- Using Velcro is a good alternative instead of drilling holes. Plus it gives you the opportunity to check out the placement of the radio before you make it a permanent installation. I would stay away from the basic "black" Velcro because the adhesive can easily fail in extreme cold or hot conditions found in your vehicle. Look for the heavy duty type (usually in a white or clear color) used in marine applications. If prepped and mounted correctly, it should hold your TK-805D just fine.

3 - You stated "real" difference. My 2¢ worth is, your best placement will be rooftop whether mag mount or permanent mount. For testing purposes you can try the mag mount placed on rooftop and move it to various locations on your vehicle to see if it degrades or improves your signal. Performance should be equal until the mag mount starts to degrade. See Cons below.

Mag Mount - Pros: Easy deployment. Out of sight if removed. Can change location on vehicle to improve signal.
Cons - Can be more expensive. Frequent moving of antenna mount can loosen or damage the coax connection. Weathering (sun, cold, heat, etc.) of the mount and coax over a few years. The magnetic base can mar the finish of your vehicle. They sell rubber/plastic boots that can minimize the scratching but it will also decrease the magnetic "grab" of your mount.

Once established you may want to make a permanent move and start drilling. If it is your first attempt, seek out experienced help. Nothing worse than a screwed up permanent antenna installation. You'll regret it. If done correctly, you'll have years of trouble-free enjoyment.

I personally like installing the NMO type mounts, since you can change over to different antenna types if needed in the future. Best of luck!!!

[KC2OBW]

Few years ago when I used to work overnights at my current job and before they turned around and told us no more personal radios at work. I used to use a 805D with a cig plug adapter and a mag mount and the radio was held down with velcro and it worked well for its purpose, overnights can get pretty boring when driving around checking different facilities.

[ywhic]

Keep in mind the 805D with a SN less than 41XXXXXX will need a Mic clip to receive and process PL tone frequencies if you go with some repeater frequencies.. (the 41XXXXX and above have a few extra settings in the setup for SQ control..)

I have a newer 6XXXXX (DH) one and an older 3XXXXX (D) hence how I know.. LoL