What kind of radio?

[CigarPundit]

I’m considering installing a radio for use during off road group runs (I have yet to attend one, but I’m planning to in the future), and also to have as a means of communication if I ever find myself out of cell range and in need of assistance. My first inclination would be to bite the bullet and get a Ham radio license and radio, since it appears to be the best option in terms of power, range, and clarity should I ever need a radio in an emergency. But I’d like to avoid having to install more than one radio, and I’m worried that Ham may not be an acceptable type of radio for group runs. My impression is that most require CB, which would be my last choice on the merits, but the reality is that this will most likely be my main use of the radio, so if that is what’s required, then so be it. I haven’t looked into whether there are units that have both types in one.

So what are most people running? CB, FRS, GMRS, HAM? Any pointers on brands or models? I’d like to keep it compact and easy to install. Will my NMO antenna mount (I ordered one with my GJ third brake light) work for all types of radios?

 

[Jonny V]

I just went the Ham route. Most group runs require a 50 watt radio, which puts you in the Ham category. Ordinary CB radios have a very limited range, so they really dont pass muster for what we need. Here's a link where I posted on the WDYDTYRT? thread....

https://www.fordraptorforum.com/threads/what-did-u-do-to-your-raptor-today.25089/page-1972

I also bought 3 Beofung hand-helds off Ebay for backup/SHTF use. I will have to get the Ham license, but its pretty easy to do. The main thing is being competent using the radio and not breaking laws.

 

[CigarPundit]

Thanks. I really don’t want a CB anyway, and if HAM works for group runs, that’s perfect. I was just reading that you can’t get CB/HAM combo units because they are not legal. Now I just need to figure out what kind of radio and how to install it.

 

[The Car Stereo Company]

no groups here use cb. thats all left to the jeep and toyota crawler groups who havent gotten with the times yet. everyone here uses vhf. i have a motorola 110watt that works very well

 

[Jonny V]

no groups here use cb. thats all left to the jeep and toyota crawler groups who havent gotten with the times yet. everyone here uses vhf. i have a motorola 110watt that works very well

Wow that's a big radio...got any photos of the install (at risk of starting another radio install thread LOL)??

@CigarPundit...I just bought the parts and had a local car stereo shop install them. I could have done this for a lot less money but I wanted a super clean install and my electronics knowledge is pretty weak. Just wanted it done right the first time. Now I'm watching youtube video on Ham licensing for hours on end LOL....

 

[The Car Stereo Company]

i can get some pics later. i loaned my truck out to my friend for the weekend while i was back in colorado. he is dropping it off later today. dont have install pics, but its pretty self explanitory

Wow that's a big radio...got any photos of the install (at risk of starting another radio install thread LOL)??

 

[CigarPundit]

Yeah most of the units I have been looking at are 50 watts. I’d like to get one with a remote head unit/display as it would give me more flexibility for installation.

 

[Jonny V]

Yeah most of the units I have been looking at are 50 watts. I’d like to get one with a remote head unit/display as it would give me more flexibility for installation.

Thats what I got. Remote head mounted up in the headliner by the sunglass holder, body under the front seat, and I can plug the mic into either the head or the body. Most of the time it'll be plugged into the body. Also had the antenna lead run to the back seat area. Right now, I'm stuck with a magnetic mount (temp unit). However, when I get a few more bucks I'm going with the GJ brake light and antenna setup. Take a look at the link above. There's a parts list and photos of the finished install.

 

[CigarPundit]

Thanks JonnyV. Good thread that I somehow missed before here:

https://www.fordraptorforum.com/threads/my-ham-radio-install.68001/page-3

 

[Jonny V]

Yep I got a lot of info off that thread. Lots of ways to skin the cat.