Hello,
I just ordered my first radio setup from Mike at RA. It's going in an 84' Jeep CJ-7. I could use some help with the antenna install. The options I'm thinking of so far are welding a bracket onto the rear bumper or possibly on the swing out tire carrier (not sure if that would be a problem with the coax) or I have found a bracket online that mounts behind one of the tail lights. Anyone have a Jeep, what worked well or what didn't? All input is appreciated.
Thanks
Jeep antenna install
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231
I do. An '02 TJ here. I used a flush ball mount to the tub on mine. But many are able to use the swing away as well (I've helped set up many that way). Personally I prefer using a stainless steel mount (over welding a mount on) with at least one full bolt through on the top of the swing away carrier. Then using as least a couple self tapping SS screws into the shiney metal of the carrier. By the way, what brand of swing away are you using (or is it home made)? I'm pretty familiar with most of the brands layout(s). Depending on the layout of the carrier, you'd have a variety of antenna choices that would perform well both on and off road IMO.
From strictly a performance standpoint, in the center of of the rig's roof would be optimal. Hardly doable on a SWB Jeep with soft top or fiberglass HT. So there are trade offs. Mounted in the back the rig would be somewhat directional toward the front. But make no mistake about it, it still works off the back. I'd try NOT to mount it to the bumper if I was you. That low will create side reflection on the signal off the tub.
Hope that helps a little.
From strictly a performance standpoint, in the center of of the rig's roof would be optimal. Hardly doable on a SWB Jeep with soft top or fiberglass HT. So there are trade offs. Mounted in the back the rig would be somewhat directional toward the front. But make no mistake about it, it still works off the back. I'd try NOT to mount it to the bumper if I was you. That low will create side reflection on the signal off the tub.
Hope that helps a little.
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Fifthwheelin57
Thanks for the reply. Looking at it some more I am thinking about mounting it on the bump stop for the tire carrier. It will be higher than the bumper and out of the way. I have the stock tire carrier on there now. I am finishing up the front bumper and plan on building a rear bumper with a swing out carrier next. Maybe I'll relocate the antenna when that's done.
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231
That should work. It's what most do, and it seems to be the best trade off for performance vs. looks and survivability on the trail. Make sure you get to some shiney metal on the mount, or simply run a secondary ground strap from the mount to the tub and/or chassis. The rear tailgate being hinged doesn't alway provide a good ground source for the mount.
Let us know how things turn out.
Let us know how things turn out.
