Alternative to using Firestik's splitter

[Spook50]

I haven't yet wired in my CB, so I still don't know if my splitter works or not, but given the spotty luck people have had with them, I've opted to ditch the splitter, use my Firestick exclusively for my CB, and ordered an interior amplified AM/FM antenna to use with my radio instead. Haven't gotten it yet, but I wanted to throw it out there for anyone wanting one of Kevin's Firestick mounts but still wanting to retain use of their FM/AM radio (like me at this point). I'll post back up once it's installed and let you guys know how well it works (or doesn't if that's the case).

Universal Window-mount Antenna AM/FM replacement antenna at Crutchfield.com

Posted it here so anyone wanting one of Kevin's 60/62 Firestick mounts would see it.

 

[kevinmrowland]

Not bad, do you mount it at the base or at the top of the window?
Let us know how it works for you.

And keep in mind that after speaking directly with Firestik they have promised that all new splitters are being tested before packaging.
They were very good to deal with and I hope that they stick to their word (I got the impression that they would).

KR

 

[Spook50]

Not bad, do you mount it at the base or at the top of the window?
Let us know how it works for you.

And keep in mind that after speaking directly with Firestik they have promised that all new splitters are being tested before packaging.
They were very good to deal with and I hope that they stick to their word (I got the impression that they would).

KR

Oh cool. I didn't know you had talked to them about the issue with the splitters. The antenna mounts inside, and apparently can be wherever you want to put it. Personally I would think you'd get the best reception by having it up high on the windshield. Maybe tucked behind the rear view mirror or somewhere like that.

 

[kevinmrowland]

Yeah, I pulled that whole part from my site until after I went over the problem with them.
It just turned out that no one had told them of the issue, they were actually quite appreciative of the info and promised to change the process.
Can't get much better than that.

 

[Spook50]

Yeah, I pulled that whole part from my site until after I went over the problem with them.
It just turned out that no one had told them of the issue, they were actually quite appreciative of the info and promised to change the process.
Can't get much better than that.

Glad to hear that they take product issues seriously. I'm still planning on using two separate antennas though, if for no other reason than it'll be a PITA to conceal the splitter behind my dash anyway

 

[Darasick]

Hey Spook, did you install that antenna yet?

 

[Spook50]

Hey Spook, did you install that antenna yet?

It's in, but I haven't tested it yet since I had to relocate my amplifier when I reinstalled my Mazda seats. Once I have the amp and speakers all redone and the radio reinstalled I'll post up my results with the antenna. Hopefully it'll be just as good as with my old mast antenna.

 

[Jrob80]

Spook would there be enough cable to run to the back of my 80? I think your right about mounting it high on the w/s but I have my Viper antenna right in the middle of my w/s behind the review mirror, so that won't work for me.

 

[Spook50]

Spook would there be enough cable to run to the back of my 80? I think your right about mounting it high on the w/s but I have my Viper antenna right in the middle of my w/s behind the review mirror, so that won't work for me.

I have some excess coiled up underneath my dash, but I'm pretty sure it's not enough to reach the back of our wagons. OTOH there's nothing that says you can't get an extension for the antenna lead (standard Motorola style) and solder extra wire in place for the power/ground leads to reach the back.

Ugh I still gotta get my interior put back together and finish rerouting all my wiring so I can find out just how well this antenna works
Amazing how moving, setting up the shop, and having a baby can push everything else to the back burner (especially that baby thing ).

 

[Jrob80]

I figured one could get an extension to make it work, might have to look into this once I get all my parts and what not for my CB. I have heard that the firestick splitter for CB/FM/AM doesn't really work to well as far as getting FM signal.

I here you about getting everything set up we moved last year and I still feel like I have lots to do, and we didn't have a kid.

 

[89s rule]

What's the word on these splitters? I need one and would rather support a mud vendor if $ is close. Hoping to order this week either with you or on the bay, just want to make sure and get a good one.

 

[kevinmrowland]

Hey 89, are you asking about the firestik splitter? Or the alternative antenna that spook posted up about?
The firestiks have been reliable for about the last year, I've not heard of any issues since a little while after talking to the manufacturer about it. I don't sell the wire parts though, just the mount and hardware so it's an easy project.
Wallcott is good about the returns if there is any issue with the splitter and I have link on my antenna page to make that process easy.

KR

 

[Spook50]

After dinking around with my truck a few days ago, I'm weighing the idea of sticking with Firestik's splitter and ditching the interior antenna I installed. I'm going to make up my mind for sure when I'm able to compare reception between the interior antenna and the Firestik antenna with splitter. Whichever method gives me the best FM reception, wins.