For some reason I've always thought it would be fun to install radios in a big rig - like, to create my little nest where ham radios, scanner, and CB were in easy reach for use while heading down the road. I'm not a truck driver but they seem like a good space for setting up a mobile shack.
The “problem” to solve has several aspects.
1). Most drivers are in fleet trucks not owned by them.
2). Owners don’t want a driver to modify the truck (that isn’t invisible afterwards).
3). Truck interiors generate noise not found in typical private vehicles.
4). Composite bodies (underlain by sheet metal) make for difficulty in antenna mounts.
5). Complicated electrical systems have to be bypassed and/or isolated.
Example: to make a power run to the battery Postive is an almost 20’ length of wire. Getting past the armored firewall isn’t easy (and have to be stealthy). The Negative to chassis near the battery is easily 15’. That’s a 35-40’ circuit.
I agree it’s attractive as you’ve stated. But it’s not for the faint of heart.
The second example is in
finding examples. There aren’t many. Some HAM operators have posted pics and such, but it’s an almost vanishingly small group who have executed the nearest to an ideal installation for that gear as listed.
It’s worth the trouble. But even as a driver talking with other drivers (who recognize the value of instant info) it’s a hard sell.
Following the model & parts list — plus work description — of someone else is the likeliest way to get things going.
.