Batboard

OK, we have 2 new chiefs this year, both drive pick-em-up trucks and need low band (46 MHz) antennas installed on them. I have volunteered to drill a nice 3/4 inch hole in both roofs but they can't because the vehicles are leased. No holes, period.

I considered a trunk lip type of mount on the hood but that's close to the engine and electronics, and I don't want 100 W of RF near these things. Ignition noise is also a concern here although I think the radios have noise blankers in them. Glass mount antennas seem to be unavailable for 46 MHz. There are toolboxes in the bed but they're aluminum and won't hold a mag mount.

Rooftop mag-mounts are out because they park in garages, clearance is a problem and also they don't want the paint scratched.

What I'm looking at now is a bumper mount I found at Ham Radio Outlet but I'm wondering if any of you guys have a favorite part number or - any other suggestions?

Thanks,

Joe

WB2IID wrote:OK, we have 2 new chiefs this year, both drive pick-em-up trucks and need low band (46 MHz) antennas installed on them. I have volunteered to drill a nice 3/4 inch hole in both roofs but they can't because the vehicles are leased. No holes, period.

Joe,
One of the local guys made a U shaped frame of 2" x 4.5" steel box tubing. It spanned the bed with flat plates that covered the bed stake holes welded to the tips of the "U". Thing had a full size A24 Aerodynic & a low band whip attached to it on the passenger side.

It was miter cut to follow the profile of the cab Looked real good painted the color of the truck. Came time to turn in the truck, the only hole was in the rear of the cab, between the bed & body. The lease agency never noticed it

Martin

How about a mount that goes in the stake pocket of the bed?

http://www.geotool.com/antmount.htm