BonziBuddy
Member
- Joined
- Oct 9, 2008
- Messages
- 166
I have my CB antenna mounted inside my truck like this.
I'm curious as to how much the signal weakens as a result to being half inside the bed?
I also have a 4 foot antenna to use. Would that be better?
I have a 4 foot version that I might switch back to.Hello BonziBuddy
I'd have to say that the mount you have in the picture should not affect your signal too much. IF you can I'd get a longer antenna but what you have now should work.
73
Ermin
I figured that the CB frequency range wouldn't have a problem getting through the bed of the truck. It's also mostly compost plastic.I have to disagree.
With part of the antenna being 'shielded' by it's 'other half', the metal of the vehicle, there will be a distinct loss in performance, and efficiency. You are also taking a chance of of that antenna 'shorting' out to the bed of the truck since the spring will allow it to beat against the side of the bed. Mounting it higher so that the base of the antenna is above the side of the bed will definitely make things 'better'.
I'm not a fan of helically wound antennas. So keeping that in mind, and if you can put up with the clatter and hitting things part, a longer and non-helically wound antenna would do better in my opinion.
- 'Doc
Mount it in CENTER of the roof.
n9zas
The best mounting location for any antenna, no matter what frequency range is always dead center on the roof. The roof is clear of any obstructions. The body can be an attenuator when any antenna is mounted on the side of a vehicle. You will notice many of the newest automobile models are sporting roof mounted antennas and they are moved to the rear so as to avoid engine generated static. But it appears you park in a garage, the antenna should be mounted as high as possible on the bed and I would recommend using a spring at it's base if at all possible.
Of course the top, center of the roof is ideal, BUT i don't believe the current instal will pose too great of a problem.