CB installation - no holes - no drills

[Glenn]

I figured out how to mount a CB antenna without drilling any holes.

I mounted the antenna to the roof rack track. Using a firestik Jeep wrangler mount with a couple of washers added to the underside mounting plate. Then a fold down antenna mount with a firestik k40 added. I ran the coax into the marker light wiring hole. The whole thing is lower than my roof rack cross bars, so I dont have to ever remove it. When I transmit, I get good range with the antenna down and great range with it up.

[Glenn]

I figured out how to mount a CB antenna without drilling any holes.

I mounted the antenna to the roof rack track. Using a firestik Jeep wrangler mount with a couple of washers added to the underside mounting plate. Then a fold down antenna mount with a firestik k40 added. I ran the coax into the marker light wiring hole. The whole thing is lower than my roof rack cross bars, so I dont have to ever remove it. When I transmit, I get good range with the antenna down and great range with it up.

[Glenn]

I then mounted the Cobra 75. I almost bought a Uniden CB to mount to the side of the tranny hump, but at the last minute decided on the Cobra. The Uniden had RF gain, with really helps with the weak signals. One of the posters on this forum, says that the Cobra 75WXst is a P.O.S. So I almost did not buy it. But the scanning, dual watch and weather was just too desirable.

I found that the Cobra actually does work GREAT. The Antenna and being sure that it is grounded is the critical part of getting a good transmission.

[Glenn]

The Cobra 75 mounting reqired a special mount. There is only one place in the world that you can get this material. In fact you can't even buy it. The only way you can get your hands on this is to have a pair of pants dry cleaned.

I removed the bolt securing the dash.
Made a large loop in the clothes hanger.
Positioned the loop behind the bolt hole.
Reinstalled the bolt.

It’s a secure and unobtrusive installation

[Glenn]

The Cobra 75 mounting reqired a special mount. There is only one place in the world that you can get this material. In fact you can't even buy it. The only way you can get your hands on this is to have a pair of pant dry cleaned.

I removed the bolt securing the dash.
Made a large loop in the clothes hanger.
Positioned the loop behind the bolt hole.
Reinstalled the bolt.

It’s a secure and unobtrusive installation

SIG/Sauer collector with Pewter LUX, Air suspension package, GPS, Cobra75wxst CB, UnidenBC245XLT, Valentine One.

[Glenn]

I was in a hurry so I bought everything from a local shop. But i did find everythign on-line.
I ran the coax into the marker light hole. I removed the corner molding and the grap bar to run it all behind the trim and under the dash. I think I could have done it without removeing the trim, but I thought it was better to run it behind the trim. A clothes hanger helps to get the wire run. Then you have to solder a PL-259 coax connector onto the wire. You can either use a folding or quick-disconnect adapter. I chose the folding. I cant find it on-line, but I will keep looking.

General info on mounting:
http://www.alfenterprises.com/MobileCBAntennas.html

Mount kit I used:
http://www.alfenterprises.com/jeep_wrangler_fender_mounts.htm

Antenna:
http://www.alfenterprises.com/firestik_antennas.htm

SIG/Sauer collector with Pewter LUX, Air suspension package, GPS, Cobra75wxst CB, UnidenBC245XLT, Valentine One.

[JohnnyBoy]

Anybody try the glass mount type antennas? I had one on my Grand Cherokee and it worked great! They look like a cel phone antenna.

==================================
03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat
http://www.haugens.com

[Steve R]

Glenn,

Sweet set-up! I love the antenna...very clean AND ready to fold down if/when you hit a tree or something that will have its way with your antenna!

My magnetic mounted antenna got whacked off (hehehe...I typed whacked-off) several times while offroading, and once it even fell off to the side and put a little dent in the door. I cried, but got over it. Still...that antenna set-up is sweet! Good work!

[Glenn]

I used the crimp type mount. I did scrap and sand off some of the paint on the underside of the roof rack, until i got a perfect reading from my VOM (from the antenna mount to the chassis). I also scraped off some paint and rubber between the roof rack and the first mouting bolt on the rack. Don't know that I needed too, but the grounding of the mount is the most important part of the antenna.

I added the foldover mount on that, which I found at the CB shop. I did find it on line at:
http://www.palcoelectronics.com/p1003315.htm It is a 203EZ from Valor. I considered the firestik folding mount http://www.firestik.com/Catalog/dv90.htm but the Valor looked cleaner without the wingnut.

On the trail and around town i just leave it down and i get great reception, but only shorter trasnmit range. On the open highway, i'll put it up. So far I have not tested the actual range. But i have not yet asked for a channel 19 "i need me a radio check", without a solid "It's a working driver" reply. I need to get out of town to get some mile marker referances.

As far as glass mount:
I had one on my chevy dually when the kids were on the hores show circuit. I thought it worked great. But I was having doubts, so I got a roof top perminate antenna. I found out that the reception was the same. But the glass mount gave my about 20% of the transmit range of the roof top mount. I spent a lot of time hauling the goosneck with horses between Texas, oklahoma, Indiana, Kentucky, Wisconsin, Tennesse and Kansas to learn how differance there was in transmit range is on the open highway. Comments from firestik: http://www.firestik.com/Tech_Docs/on-glass.htm comments from Alf: http://www.alfenterprises.com/MobileCBAntennas.html A glass mount can loose upto 3db (on the log scale). That is 1000 times less transmit power.

SIG/Sauer collector with Pewter LUX, Air suspension package, GPS, Cobra75wxst CB, UnidenBC245XLT, Valentine One.

[DRTYFN]

Glenn,
Great Setup!! Really looks nice!! I'll mount(huh huh, I said mount) mine the same way. Thanks.

"I smell varmint poontang."

[DRTYFN]

Sorry about the mount remark. The Devil made me say it.

"I smell varmint poontang."

[oc192]

Glen,

Thanks for the post great idea. I tried to use a glass-mount antenna with the same cobra radio you have and it worked like sh*t. I guess I have my weekend project now....

03 H2
02 Viper GTS
02 Z71 Suburban
98 Harley Davidson FLSTF

[Dan]

How about these?

http://www.redhummer.com/myhummer/antennas/index.html

---------------------------------
SUT on order - 17 months to go!
---------------------------------

[Glenn]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by PhilD:
Glenn, One last question, where did you take the power from for the CB? <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I ran the power from the fuse block. If you want the CB to be on, just select a fuse that is on all the time, such as the 12v power outlet. I used the same fuse as the radio, so the power goes on and off.

You can twist the wire around one of the fuses in the block or you can buy a terminal to do it from the autoparts store.

the ground wire i ran to a screw on the chassis, under the dash.

SIG/Sauer collector with Pewter LUX, Air suspension package, GPS, Cobra75wxst CB, UnidenBC245XLT, Valentine One.

[NEGATE]

Glen,Where did you mount the connector for the mic/radio.You cant see it in the picture.Also did you opt for the ext. speaker or can you hear it ok sitting in the custom dash mount.

[Joe]

Has anyone discovered if the roof mounted lights will interfere with this installation? I know it was brought up but how it turned was not mentioned.

I also have a sunroof so I'm pretty sure I will be unable to set the lightbar back to allow for the antenna installation first.

Any feedback. This is a nice set-up that I want to duplicate but want to make sure I will not run in to problems.

Thanks all...

[Joe]

Phil. Thanks, great info.

Curious, do you have a sunroof on your H2? If I follow the Antenna still needs to be mounted in front of the lightbar to allow for running the wiring. My other concern more than actually the antenna position when angled down is if the offset on the lightbar will interfere with the sunroof.

The other idea is that I will be installing an SMA Tire Carrier shortly and I was thinking I could just mount an antenna on that asssembly somehow.

Picture would be great and thanks again for the info...

[Joe]

Great info. Thanks again. I completely misread the info about where the antenna cable tracks up to the sidemarkers. I think I will just shoot for an install behind the light bar.

Again, Thanks!

[JohnnyBoy]

Does that antenna click into place when up or down or does it just swing free?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

Is that the KW2 or KW3 firestik?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

Oh ya, and did you use the crimp on mount or screw on mount?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

Thanks for the info. I'm going to my local radio shop on Monday to get the parts. I'm going with the Cobra 75 aswell. Was it hard to run the wire through the top light? Will I have to peel back some trim or will I be able to fish the cable through with a fish line?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

I got most of my parts today. Had to order the SS-J4 mount. My dealer didn't have that exact one in stock. When I attached that fold down connector to the antenna, it seems to interfer with the folding motion. There is a ground lead comming off the antenna and it's that lead that stops the folding ring from moving freely. Did you have the same issue, should I cut that lead off?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

There is a small gauge wire that comes off the antenna. I thought this was the standard for ones that have a tunable tip. It is supposed to be grounded to the antenna clamp only if you cannot get a low SWR reading on Channels 1 and 40. I assume this is something to do with matching the antenna. I'm a novice when it comes to CB's.

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

I will check with my CB shop about that wire. I originally wanted the FS2, but he was out of stock. So I ended up getting the Wilson KW2 which looks just like the FS2. It was more expensive, the dealer told me its a better antenna. Do you have the Cobra 75? If so, where did you mount the antenna connector box?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

Ok, I'll do the same. The mic just plugs underneath the dash pannel by your feet on the right hand side and into the connector box thats mounted there. So that means the mic cable comes from behind the dash by your feet. I assume there is enough mic cord to bring it up by your mouth for talking?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

Ok, thats what I'll do. As soon as the SS-J4 mounting bracket comes in, I'll do the install and let you know how it goes.
Thanks for all the advise!

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

Hey PhilD, I just did the CB portion of the install tonight. My Fender mount is still on order, it should be here next week.
I took off the top light to see that hole where you run the wire through that channel to the inside. My question is how do you run the CB coax cable through that rubber gromet under the marker light (driver's side). Do you just punch a hole through the gromet, and if so how do you seal it after?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[Joe]

Curious about the samething on feeding the CB antenna cable. I just finished installing the room mounted off road lights and I am wondering if it is possible to feed the offroad lights along with the CD Antenna through the same hole and grommet. Seems like it would be tight. Has anyone run the antenna on the passenger side marker light. Antenna cable should be long enough to get the CB mounted inside ok... Curious.

[JohnnyBoy]

Hey PhilD, I'm trying to feed the CB wire through that channel starting at the top clearance light. I can fish the wire down a fair bit cant cant find where it comes out. I also can't get that grab bar off to see the wire. I assume you pull of those plugs on the grab bar but can't get them off? What's up?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

I also seem to be hitting some type of foam while trying to fish my fish wire down that channel. It's taking me alot more than 90 minutes! I can't find the fish wire anywhere near the bottom by your feet.

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

Man Oh man, I'm haveing such trouble doing what seems to be a simple job. I spent three hours out in minus 30 degree temps with no luck! I can't get those plugs out to remove the grab bar. I pulled it out part way with a small flat head screwdriver but couldn't get it off all the way. When you say door trim what exactly are you referring to? Not the rubber seal that goes around the doors

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

FINALLY!!! I have just successfully done the install. The trick for me was getting off that grab bar. I thought those plugs pop off to reveal a screw or something, but that wasn't the case. I got them started all the way around and then gave them a good yank like you said and off they came. Then I could see the track behind the A-Pillar and fished the antenna wire through. Thanks for all the help PhilD! Now I'm all set.

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

I never cursed you but I did think noway this guy could do it in 45 minutes! But if I had to do it again I probably could.
Last summer I put a 2" lowering kit on my motorcycle. My neibour told me it was a 10 minute job... ya right, more like two hours and ten minutes!

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[JohnnyBoy]

Spare time is what it takes to get the job done right sometimes. I should of messed around a little befor hand aswell.
Now what should I do next?

==================================
'03 Hummer H2 Adv./Lux. Pkgs. Sunset Orange W/Sunroof
Air Spring Susp. Pkg. + 3rd. row seat & DVD System.
CompuStar Auto Security/Remote Starter.
http://www.haugens.com

[CslRkH2]

Sorry to reply to this ancient post...

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content"> The Cobra 75 mounting reqired a special mount. There is only one place in the world that you can get this material. In fact you can't even buy it. The only way you can get your hands on this is to have a pair of pants dry cleaned.

I removed the bolt securing the dash.
Made a large loop in the clothes hanger.
Positioned the loop behind the bolt hole.
Reinstalled the bolt.

It’s a secure and unobtrusive installation
</div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Does anyone know the diminsions of this hanger? I'm thinking of fabricating a narrow painted metal strap for a little more finished look.

[dochummer]

Sorry to bring up an old thread again... http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif Here's what i'm planning on shopping for;

Firestik FS-2-B $17.99
Valor 203EZ 90degree $9.99
SS-J4 Jeep Fender Mount $12.99
Fire-Flex K-8R18 Coax (ring and PL-259 attached to 18' Coax) $10.99
Cobra 75 WXST $97
Inline Splice/Clip for power
2-4 Washers
Couple of zip ties

Is that it? One concern is the Fire-flex. I think the ends are already soldered on...may make for a large hole to be punched. How big of a washer is needed? Do I need any special tools? Thanks for your help!

[CslRkH2]

The connector comes off (it just screws on and off with threads) the end of the coax going into the cab. You go from roof under plastic bracket, through grommet, down into the cab. The ring probably would not fit into the existing hole. Be gentle with the coax with feeding it through. I may have broken the continuity on mine because I was not very cautious and it didn't work after installed (continuity was not present from one end to the other).

Let me clraify...the end comes off easily on this particular cable (FireStik MU8R18):

WalcotCB.COM EZ Install Coax (http://www.walcottcb.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=581)

[dochummer]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by dochummer:
Sorry to bring up an old thread again... http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif Here's what i'm planning on shopping for;

Firestik FS-2-B $17.99
Valor 203EZ 90degree $9.99
SS-J4 Jeep Fender Mount $12.99
Fire-Flex <span class="ev_code_RED">MU8R18</span> Coax (ring and PL-259 attached to 18' Coax) $17.99
Cobra 75 WXST $97
Inline Splice/Clip for power
2-4 Washers
Couple of zip ties

Is that it? <STRIKE>One concern is the Fire-flex. I think the ends are already soldered on...may make for a large hole to be punched. </STRIKE> How big of a washer is needed? Do I need any special tools? Thanks for your help! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Ok fixed. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif