One antenna works, one doesn't

[96r50]

I have two Wilson antennas. The first is a 3' fibreglass and the other is the 4' flex model. I have the 3' tuned and working with no worries, but the 4' pegs off the meter all the time. This would lead me to believe the system (Slee-style modified Radioshack CB, Wilson coax, Firestik hood/trunk mount) is ok, but the flex antenna is not. Am I missing something?

Is there a way I can test the antenna before I try to return it? I want to use the flex antenna for trails and low treed areas, but I can't get it to work. Any hints or tips?

Thanks!

 

[Miescha]

Just to be clear, it sounds like you are using the same radio/cb with the same coax and same mount - only changing the antenna (screw one off and the other on). Is this correct?

If so, I'm with you - the antenna is the problem. You could use an antenna analyzer, but that's a pricey option if you don't already have the analyzer and don't otherwise need/want it.

 

[FJ40_owner]

Meter each antenna with an Ohm meter. Do they read similar? Is the coax in good shape? Lots of easy tests are available with an Ohm meter.

 

[96r50]

Just to be clear, it sounds like you are using the same radio/cb with the same coax and same mount - only changing the antenna (screw one off and the other on). Is this correct?

If so, I'm with you - the antenna is the problem. You could use an antenna analyzer, but that's a pricey option if you don't already have the analyzer and don't otherwise need/want it.

Yeah, same system, just swapping antennas

Meter each antenna with an Ohm meter. Do they read similar? Is the coax in good shape? Lots of easy tests are available with an Ohm meter.

Where do I take the readings from? Tip to base?

 

[FJ40_owner]

Yeah, same system, just swapping antennas




Where do I take the readings from? Tip to base?

Yes. I would disconnect the coax from the radio and antenna. There should be zero resistance. The meter does nothing.

Short one end to the other. (center cond to shield.) there should be less than 20 Ohms.

Now you know your coax is good or not.

Now do the same to the antennas.

Good luck

 

[96r50]

I checked the coax after the final install and it was fine. Could you explain the antenna testing a bit more? I thought the antenna was only one half of the circuit (so there should be continuity between the tuning tip and the mounting screw/base.
Thanks for the help!

 

[96r50]

Can anyone explain how I test the antenna?
Thanks