Antenna mounting and 'tuning'
The correct antenna length (its ‘tuning’ or ‘trimming’), and how it should be mounted, depends on your choice of radio. With AM radios, the ‘whip’ (the actual visible aerial, on the outside of the vehicle) should be mounted centrally on the vehicle’s roof so that the metal roof surface can act as a reflector, greatly increasing the quality and range of the signal.
FM antenna come in two basic lengths and are shorter than their AM counterparts. The shorter FM whip is also best mounted centrally, while the longer version can operate effectively from side mountings, usually on gutters, bumpers or behind the driver’s door.
Coiled ‘shock springs’ can also be used to allow greater flexibility around the mounting joint itself and can save your antenna if you fail to notice that low hanging branch overhead.
It is important to note that an incorrectly connected or poorly positioned antenna can severely disrupt your signal or even damage your radio, so if you’re not sure about where yours should be mounted, it’s best to speak to a professional.
Fitting
Actually fitting the radio into your cab can be a challenge in itself. If you don’t have space on the dashboard, try fitting the unit on the inside of the cab roof, or between the front seats, but be aware that a sharp edged box protruding from the inside of your cab can be dangerous in an accident and care should be taken not to place it where it could cause serious injury.
Servicing
According to Eric Skeen, for many years now the go-to guy for all things radio on www.4x4community.co.za, “as VHF grows in popularity, many manufacturers are discontinuing their AM lines and, as a result, spare AM components have become harder to find, making servicing increasingly difficult and expensive. VHF radios are easier and cheaper to fix – something to consider if you’re trying to decide what to buy.”
Page 1: A review of inter-vehicle communication
Page 2: Antenna mounting, fitting and servicing
Page 3: Clubs, licensing and the law
Page 4: Radio etiquette, prowords and the phonetic alphabet
Page 5: Jargon, dealers and price guide
