CB power source and wire routing

[BOMB Squad]

I'm about to install my CB, and I'm looking for some input regarding picking a good clean source for the power leads. What works, and what doesn't? Also, how have you routed the power leads, and antenna cable? I'll be using a Brolin mount, and FireStik fender mount for the antenna. Thanks!



Brian

 

[Lurch]

I didn't use a Brolin but fabbed something similar. I don't have power seats so I tapped the seat circuit for power. Ran all wires under carpet to door, under entry cover/carpet edge to under dash, through big rubber grommet to engine compartment. Wrapped the excess coax and dropped in opening for hood spring.



Lurch

 

[TomGolden]

Well, I just ran my power and ground wires directly to the battery, using a fuse in the hot line. Haven't experienced any [problems yet, but use the radio rarely. It's more of a nice to have emergency communication tool, and to chat with other TDR members when Ram-pooling to various events



Tom

 

[jthorpe]

It really is best to run your wire directly to the battery. Even if you're only pushing 4 watts, it's also a good idea to run 8 to 10 gauge wire as well. I put my fuse inline right by the battery so it's easy to change. I use the flat fuses. Although my radios aren't cb's, installs are similair. I drilled two holes on my roof for the antennas, one vhf and one uhf. If you ever do run two antennas for seperate radios, make sure the distance between them is right or you'll lose signal. Mine have to be exactly 19 inches apart front to back. I ran my coax from the roof to the back and down the drivers side behind the quad cab door. As for getting the power cables to the battery? There is a rubber piece, that's a long oval in shape under the dash on the drivers side that I used. I just used a phillips screwdriver to poke a hole in it, then ran the cables through.



Here is a pic of the wire going to the battery. You can also see it coming through the firewall if you look closely.



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[jthorpe]

Then, here is a pic of the install. Hehe, most people probably won't want to do this, but I had to actually bolt the cupholder in place so it would hold the weight of the upper control head, and the lower uhf radio. I'll try and get some pics of the antenna wiring tomorrow. Hope this helps a little bit.



Jack



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[jthorpe]

Oh yeah one more thing. Don't coil up your coax! If you have extra, run it under the carpet or something, long bends, but don't coil it!



Jack

 

[BOMB Squad]

jthorpe,



Thanks for your help.



Brian

 

[jthorpe]

You're welcome