CB antenna on a 40

[Rocknroll]

I currently have a 3 ft. firestick on a through the tub mount on the right rear corner of my FJ 40. I think I would benefit from something that at least would stick up a bit higher above the top. Although I've had good luck with firesticks in the past, I'd like your opinions on other antennas. I'd like to keep the current mount since it is already drilled through the tub and remains in place if when i take the top off. Thanks.

 

[rusty_tlc]

I currently have a 3 ft. firestick on a through the tub mount on the right rear corner of my FJ 40. I think I would benefit from something that at least would stick up a bit higher above the top. Although I've had good luck with firesticks in the past, I'd like your opinions on other antennas. I'd like to keep the current mount since it is already drilled through the tub and remains in place if when i take the top off. Thanks.

The best solution would be a whip antenna, banned at most events because it could put an eye out. Alternatively I think there are a few base loaded antennas out there that work better than the Firestick

 

[Miescha]

Alternatively, you could just go with a longer Firestick (or other brand) to get above the roof line. I believe the Firestick has a line (Firefly maybe?) that is very light and flexible and puts much less strain on the mount. Essentially, trying to achieve the lightness of a whip. They are still tip tuneable. I know they are available in a 4ft and I'm nearly certain they have a 5ft also.

Good luck.

 

[WristPin]

I have ran all kinds of antennas. My favorite is the 102" whip. So far the 6 I have installed and used all have required no tunning. The location of its mount has always been right in the middle of the truck. I see 1.3-1.6 SWR with whips.

Also I like the K40, but not as much. Its a smaller antenna. 36"? It has a load at the base. Its detachable with a 1/4 turn. the SWR I have seen on those are between 1.4-1.7 which is still OK.

Placement, cable type, microphone modulation are all keys to gettin out. Run a Astatic D-104, and you will have selectible modulation, and a rugged mic to boot. Use RG-8x AKA mini 8. before you walk out of the shop use your DVOM to check if the conductor and sheild are isolated. I have bough a few that were sittin in the package for so long, when I uncoiled it, somwhere the two shorted.

RG=58 is old and out dated. its cheaper, but less effective.

always use 18' or 9' of cable between your antenna and radio. and if you are using a kicker, do the same between the kicker and radio

 

[Rocknroll]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I like the k-40 too, but can't find a mounting location I'm happy with. I've had good luck with the Wilson 2000 on my pickup but thought a top load would be better for my mount setup.