So I got a new Cobra 29 LX on the way, it's free so I figured I'd take it.
Question for anyone, how can I mount this in a 2011 ford focus? Not much space to put it. I was thinking on the side of the console on the passenger side with some heavy duty velcro (whatever the white/clear plastic snap in velcro is) I used it before to mouth a scanner remote head to the top of the windshield so I figure it would work that way. I don't really want to drill, and want it easily accessible.
I've experimented with velcro. The problem I always had was that the adhesive weakens in the heat and falls off of dashboard/interior plastic. That stuff sticks to glass a lot better than the course plastics used in vehicle interiors. I might use it for a small, light microphone, but no matter what you hang from the velcro, you will probably have to take it off in excessive heat or it'll fall off.
Any tips for mounting it?
I've never been happier since I've drilled into the plastic and metal and screwed or bolted the pieces on. Worst case, if you think it'll affect resale or trade-in value that much, buy a replacement panel or get creative and mount some decoration or accessory over the holes if/when you sell it. If the holes are underneath, then you may not even be able to notice them without your head on the floor.
As for the mounting location, you might ask yourself how you will be using the radio. If it's always going to be on channel 19 (save for very few exceptional circumstances), you could mount the radio in a less accessible location, such as under or behind a seat or even in the trunk. Then run the mic to the dash (with an extension cable if necessary), and even add an external speaker (approx. 4"x4"x2") to mount under the dash where you originally thought you'd put the radio. Heck, you might even be able to wire-in an external frequency counter and mount that to the dash, too, so you can see what channel you're on without seeing the radio and reach under the seat to change the channel. The only problem with an out of the way mount, such as under the seat, could be cooling, but that shouldn't be an issue if you're not going to have many long-winded transmissions.
If you have to be able to see it and modify the settings while you're sitting in the driver's seat, then good luck finding a good and out of the way spot in that compact car. How about the ceiling? I highly recommend that you permanently mount it and do not use velcro, no matter where you put it. The radio could also come loose in an accident. Furthermore, your auto-insurance will probably cover the radio and antenna (for theft/damage replacement or for liability of any damage they may cause) only if you permanently attach them to the vehicle.
Even though the Cobra 29 is free to you, perhaps you would be happier if you sold the free radio and used the money to buy something like the Cobra 75 WX ST. Midland, I think, also makes one like that, but it's a portable that can be converted to a mobile. I personally have a Maxon MCB-10A of that same compact style, but they don't make it anymore. I ordered it from a catalog some time in the 90's. It works great.
Also, I can't directly connect it to the battery, so I have to go pick up an adapter to use the cig lighter.
Why can't you connect it to the battery?
If you use the 12V accessory/cig. lighter plug you will most likely receive noise from the vehicle, and possibly also introduce "noise" to your transmissions.
Before using the 12V accessory outlet, see what gauge wire they're using in that outlet. I bet it's pretty thin stuff and, while a legal and typical CB radio doesn't use too much power, you might be meeting or exceeding the wire's limits with a Cobra 29 LX. Accessories in those cig. outlets do catch fire from time to time, whether or not you're running much power through them.
Read Ford's own Mobile Radio Installation Guidelines:
http://www.fordemc.com/docs/download/Mobile_Radio_Guide.pdf
(other manufacturers' guides may also be helpful)
If you take the time to drill, grommet/seal, fuse, and wire the radio directly to the battery, you will be much happier (and safer) in the long run. For insurance purposes, and piece of mind, and the personal satisfaction of having done the job right, you're better off with a "permanent" mind-set than you are with a "just make it work" mind-set.
By the way, what do you plan to use for your antenna?
