Tacoma Shark Fin Antenna

[RadShackFan]

I have a 2009 4-dr Tacoma. I am tired of using a mag mount antenna. I will be going to a permanent mount. Has anyone here removed the factory shark fin antenna and used that hole for an antenna location? Will a NMO mount fit the hole w/o any mods to the hole or mount?

Thanks for any response.

(Will be a ham dual band antenna)

 

[profiledescent]

I think you'll find the existing hole square, or an offset pattern with an alignment hole (second hole) as well.

Find a good dedicated spot for the NMO. You'll never regret it.

 

[mmckenna]

For proper ground plane you really want the antenna closer to the center of the roof. Mounting them towards the rear of the cab does work, but it isn't ideal.
I'd agree, install an NMO mount in a new hole in a better location.

 

[PACNWDude]

When I read this, I half expected a military aviation dual band VHF/UHF "shark fin" antenna mounted to a Toyota Tacoma.

My old military unit used to mount these to the roof of the CUCV Blazers and HMMWV's for calling in close air support.

With a spare in my inventory, I have though about mounting it on a full sized SUV, it would work well for amateur radio, and has two connectors, one each for VHF and UHF.

As mmckenna said though, a NMO mount in the center of the roof is ideal. My car has a trunk lip NMO antenna that gets out fairly well though too. I know I lose a mile or so on maximum range, but didn't need to punch a hole int he roof either. So mounting to a headache bar, roof rack or tool box can work too.