Mobile antenna for VHF Lo band (31-43mhz)

[Grog]

I'm thinking of running a dedicated scanner for VHF Lo band in my truck. I've always used either a 20" whip or a mfj dual-band mag mount (I know :lol: ) for all freqs I monitor.

I'm going to do a full install (several antennas) for my car & truck (94 Caprice & 95 Bronco) which will give me several options.

I want to monitor NC Forestry @ 31mhz & the Highway Patrol @ 42mhz. My primary options are a base loaded antenna tuned in between or a shortned 102" on a ball mount? I know the ball mount is hamsexy and If i ever upgraded (tech always :wink: ) I could always use that mount for HF.

If you have any other sugesstions, let me know

 

[INDY72]

You could also use an NMO mounted 35-40" whip.....center rear deck mounted on da pricy'

Also depends on just what else your going to monitor... Best bet is one for each band..... Yeah youll look like a cop but oh well youll hear the action..... Say VHF Lo- 35-40" NMO left side, VHF Hi- 28-32" NMO right side.... for the caprice....

On the Ford- Roof mounted NMO's, or hood lip mounted. Last resort use the ball mounted in its side or ass,.... Or bumper mount it.


I suggest NMO mounted over ball mounts anyday as they perform much better... Larsen, Antennex..... Any good brand, but the NMO trunk/roof mount kicks the ball mounts ass. The only good ball mount would be an actual 60" VHF Ball mount off an cruiser Other than that ball mounts are better for CB's.

 

[Grog]

If I went for the ball, it would only be Lo band on the truck, but I figured I'd probably go the NMO route.

The problem with the caprice, is that 18 months ago, It was the chief's car in a small town where I travel. That's why I've postponed putting things on it. I'll probably get a ham tag & make sure it can't be mistaken for a current issue car. Probation & parole, Dept. of Corrections, & a few others stuill issue the 93-96 B-body chevys around here. I don't want to find all my tires flat at the mall

I'm going to try to limit the car to three antennas. One 5/8 2mtr (or 2mtr/440), one 800 dedicated, and a scanner antenna. I'm thinking of the antenex that's been recommened here, or stick with a 20: whip and see how that goes.

The truck will be decked out, as that's what I use for ARES/Races & general ham stuff.

Thanks

 

[LarrySC]

There is a MAXRAD 39-42 MHz on NMO hardware at this site. 49" base load. The low end would cover below 39 with no problem for receiving. www.bncantenna.com

 

[KC4ZEX]

My suggestion for the low band is a Larson NMO-50. I bought one about 3 yrs ago, have it on top of a jeep cherokee use it for 6 meters. Its about 44 in tall works great. I am sure it would monitor the entire low band very well and is rugged and looks good.