Through the window CB antenna

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I recently purchased a Cobra CB and a Midland through the window antenna. After installing the system I learned (the hard way) that you can not get the Standing Wave down to acceptable levels (below 2 and in my case below 3) with this style antenna. I switched to a traditional mount antenna and everyting works fine now. I talked to the tech at Camping World and at D&R Communications only to find out that there is nothing can be done. Just thought I'd let you know so you can avoid the same problems I had.

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'99 2500 SLT White Quadcab 4x4 Auto 3. 54's,Most Options, Weston Steps, Warn M12k w/Trans4mer, LineX, RotoEze Stinger, B&M Gooseneck hitch, and a Polaris Diesel ATV bed toy.

 

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I have had similiar experiences with both a CB and wireless bag phone atteneas. I wanted the CB antenna (K40) behind the cab but just couldn't get the SWR down below 2. 5 to 1. After relocating the mag mount on the cab roof I got the SWR down to a flat 1 to 1 perfect match. Just too much metal for a good ground plane to content with being mounted in a lower location. On the wireless phone I gained two bars of signal strength by going to mag mount over the window thing. Window coupling just doesn't seem to work well at the lower power application. Just my two-cents. HAGO!!!

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1997 3500 SLT, Ext cab, 5spd, TST #11, GV Aux Trans, BD exhaust, Kelderman Air Ride, 60 Gallon fuel tank, Clifford Security, Reese 20k 4way 5th wheel hitch, Boost/EGT gauges, K&N air filter, Rancho RS9000 shocks, Brush Guard, DZee full length running boards.

 

[Archive]

I should probably say something since Ron saw my window mount antenna and got the idea from me. Mine works great. I have the Radio Shack window mount which has an adjustable SWR on it. Evidently,Midland's doesnt. Also my CB has a SWR meter and adjustment. My SWR is in the 1. 1-1. 5 range. My first test of the CB was last weekend with a range of 2-3 miles. I agree that the window mount is not the most ideal but it is fine for my application.

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1999 2500 Cummins w/4spd auto,Quad Cab,SWB,4x4,Flame red ,all options less leather and radio controls on steering wheel,OEM color matched runningboards,DeeZee bedrails painted black,Power Vision Mirrors,OEM ventshades,Oem sill covers,OEM underrail bedliner,Isspro pyro,Westach temp,Painless wiring,RadioShack CB,Westin Black brushguard on order

 

[Archive]

I have a thru the window antenna that I purchased thru a local auto parts store and a cheapy radio from Wally World, total cost of about $50. 00. Never check SWR, but can get out 2 -3 miles both in front of the truck and behind when traveling the interstates. Will be heading for Laramie, WY tomorrow with another group of students ready to start there careers as Auto, Diesel, and Collision/Refinishers at WTI. Will be yacking back and forth with these kids. We end up stretching the convoy out 2 - 3 miles sometimes.

Just my pennies worth!

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99 QC/LB, ISB w/auto,4x4, 3. 54, VDO (trans, boost, pyro) Westin SS Nerf Bars, Westin Grille Guard, Contico tool box, CP Industries pivoting 5th wheel, K&N, VA CPC, and Mag-Hytec transmission pan.
23607 miles (3/22/00)
98 Dodge Stratus -- 76000 miles
89 Plymouth Voyager -- 201000 mile (original engine)
87 24ft Terry Resort 5th Wheel
86 16ft Classic 16 Alumacraft
00 Honda Rancher