radio shack trc-447

[ebanjo]

Ive had this radio since 2000 something. Today I turn it on and all I get is channel 8 showing. Does not change with the selector. No light on the meter. No sound. Is the 8 a error code?


Thanks for looking at this newbies question.

[ebanjo]

I installed a trailer brake controller in the truck and I guess I stressed the power connection. It's working again.
All i need now is a better antenna.

[51]

sounds like a there is a short circuit or a pll/ic failure or lockup. first remove power then turn it on again to drain the caps, wait a few minutes then connect it to power again and turn it on. results? if it is still locked up, ist gonna have to be opened up and looked at/repaired. could be a simple component failure.

[MDYoungblood]

I think it was more like a power shortage, what happened was there wasn't enough voltage to light up the radio. The radio should for best performance be wired directly to the battery. What type of antenna are you looking for? We are all good at making suggestions in that topic.

3's

Greg

[51]

huh, weird. i didnt see that trailer brake controller post when i posted. i therefor retract my post and agree with MDY. voltage issue.

[ebanjo]

Thanks for the responses. I believe the wires at the power connector are compromised. Ill pull it out and give it a look over.

About the antenna. I'm looking for something not too expensive. but better than what I've got.

I have an old 2000 Ford F-150 with a shell. I would not mind poking some holes in the shell somewhere to mount the antenna. Or, I could mount a whip to the bumper.

Looking at these on eBay/amazon. I could mount it to the shell.
(Workman Saturn B-100 No Ground-Plane CB Antenna Home Base Station, Marine, RV)
or a magnet.
(WILSON 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount Antenna)

[jon6667]

b100 no good have a few of them lucky to talk a few miles

[ebanjo]

Thanks for that. Ill probably get one of the Wilson magnetic's.

[Scipio Kid]

I prefer mirror or hood mounts, where you can see the antenna. I've made the mistake several times of mounting on the passenger side and hitting tree branches when I park. I've also had bad luck mounting to shells ... get a good ground, more than just a #14 wire and it should work though.

Also, your problem was most definitely low voltage. I've seen it dozens of times. Bad power connection, bad ground or simply a weak battery.

[ebanjo]

Thanks, Yes it was a frayed ground wire right at the connector.

It is amazing how much just a 102" whip is now days.