I am looking to install a Yaesu FT7900 & Larsen NMO2/70B on my Subaru Outback but the antenna situation is a little tricky because I have a roof rack that I am not willing to part with. I am trying to determine the best location to mount an antenna. In the attached photo, I highlight two possible mount locations: (A) highest point on the back of the rack. (B) lip mount off the back hatch.
From what I understand, higher is better, but having a good ground plane is also essential. My questions are as follows:
1) Will the rack mount (A) be okay for 2m/70cm, assuming I have good grounds between the rack, antenna mount, and vehicle?
2) Is location (B) a better option because it is closer to the vehicle instead of elevated like (A)? Or will location (B) suffer because the rack (with or without luggage) will interfere with the signal?
3) Can you think of any other location to mount that will get me better performance?
I've read a lot of threads discussing this topic but I've found no real definitive answers. Maybe there are none? What would you do in this situation?
Thanks,
Antho
From what I understand, higher is better, but having a good ground plane is also essential. My questions are as follows:
1) Will the rack mount (A) be okay for 2m/70cm, assuming I have good grounds between the rack, antenna mount, and vehicle?
2) Is location (B) a better option because it is closer to the vehicle instead of elevated like (A)? Or will location (B) suffer because the rack (with or without luggage) will interfere with the signal?
3) Can you think of any other location to mount that will get me better performance?
I've read a lot of threads discussing this topic but I've found no real definitive answers. Maybe there are none? What would you do in this situation?
Thanks,
Antho