A simple zip tie mount for a handheld scanner or radio

[Grog]

Nothing high speed or low drag here, just one simple way to mount a handheld scanner/radio or just about anything with a belt clip that does not weight a lot.


Another fellow posted this tip for using a zip tie into a vent, and I tried it and it works well for my needs. I'll admit this is a lot easier because I use Eneloop AAs (last for days before I charge then again) and I do not use an external antenna, but it could still be done neat enough with this mounting arrangement.


Now the scanner can swing a little if I need behind it, but my truck has the automatic headlight control so it's very rare that I actually need the headlight knob that is behind it. The truck is a 2002 GMC 1500 with a standard cab, and since there are times I carry a woman and a baby seat I can use all the room I can get

 

[mancow]

GMC Grog's Midget Collector

 

[Grog]

GMC Grog's Midget Collector

Saved for future signage on the truck

 

[RESCUE4NFD]

Nice mount?...

 

[ScanManQSL]

What’s the red toggle switch for?

 

[Grog]

What’s the red toggle switch for?

It stops the flow of electricity from going to an electrical item.






Ok, the old dude who owned the truck before me had a pair of slim fog lights installed, that's the switch. I never use them though. They are wired so they will only come on when the headlights are on though, so not a completely bad install.



I want to put a "self destruct" label under it

 

[ScanManQSL]

I want to put a "self destruct" label under it

or make a decal that says something like, “Tacks” or “Oil Slick”

 

[kirka127]

or make a decal that says something like, “Tacks” or “Oil Slick”

My vote goes for EJECTOR SEAT
Kirk

 

[burner50]

Secret Midget compartment - For the switch

 

[NWI_Scanner_Guy]

I'd like to give the zip tie idea a try, but I'm afraid the weight of my Pro96 would pull the vent right off the "hinges" in my 2005 Neon.

Just a little aside (and maybe slightly off topic), I also thought about getting a radio holder (off of eBay) that snaps to the vent, but had the same fears as above, so I went with a cup holder mount instead...

Car Mount Cup Holder

Works only so-so however. Takes a few minutes of work to get it fixed in just right in the cup holder.

 

[LarryMax]

Car Mount Cup Holder.......I gotta have one!!!!

Tis a good idea and will work nicely in my work truck.

 

[b7spectra]

I guess with the scanner in front of the A/C vent, it keeps the processor cool. Must be a ***** during the winter!

 

[martymartin]

Red rocker switch...

Maybe a label "Right Ejector Seat" would work...LOL!

 

[hoser147]

Hey It works for you and the price is excellent.................Hoser
Edit: REDNECK get er done Qualifier

 

[LarryMax]

I guess with the scanner in front of the A/C vent, it keeps the processor cool. Must be a ***** during the winter!

Just found out this morning what happens when my scanner overheats. I did the zip tie trick and works and looks good. It was cold this morning and I had the defrost on but some heat this comes out the vent. After 20 minutes my scanner decided to stop on a channel with nothing on it. I pressed scan and it kept doing it and it wouldn't scan. Took about 30 mins before it was ok. Guess I'll be blocking that vent with something. The positives out weigh the negatives for me using the zip tie.

 

[Grog]

The truck has four vents, two for the right side, one for the left and a bigger one in the center. All except the center can be completely closed and I usually keep all but the center ones closed when it is jus me in the truck. No reason blowing air to the right side and I get plenty of air flow from the center vent to keep me cool.

Maybe when the winter comes along I will not have to carry as many people as I do know and can install my pro 97 (and ham rigs, maxtarcs, etc) so I won;t have to worry about blocking the heat when it is brrrrrr outside.

 

[b7spectra]

If the ties really don't work out, you know you could get a block of wood and bolt it to the dash???

 

[Army11b]

Thats one heck of an idea, good job and thanks for sharing it.
Never thought of it, but I'm gonna give it a try right now.

 

[tcb4ep]

i used velco that is normally to hang pictures without nails,, you can get it at wally world,. look in house wares..

 

[Grog]

i used velco that is normally to hang pictures without nails,, you can get it at wally world,. look in house wares..

I have used the industrial strength velcro (2" wide) for various things over time, but the hardest part with any velcro in a vehicle is not the velcro sticking to itself, but the velcro's glue sticking to whatever you put it on if there is any weight out on it.