Mobile install advice for a beginner

[KF5LFG]

Hi all,

I'm testing for the Ham license on May 28th, but I have been scoping out some options for a mobile radio rig in my 2010 Toyota Tacoma.

I'm not going to buy anything until I (hopefully) get the license, but I'd just like some advice as to where to start!

Right now I am looking at the Yaesu FT-8900R along with the Comet UHV-6 antenna. My questions with this setup are: what kind of coax cable do I need to get? And are there any special installation considerations? I've basically ironed out how to install radios in my truck after I put a CB radio in.

Thanks guys, I really appreciate any advice!
Ian

[K0BG]

Go to my web site. If you need specifics afterward, e-mail me.

[KF5LFG]

Cool, thanks, I will take a look at it and let you know if I don't understand anything.

Regards
Ian

[KF5LFG]

Passed my Technician license exam! Waiting on my callsign to come through, though. How do I have it changed on here?

Regards
Ian

[NO6O]

Passed my Technician license exam! Waiting on my callsign to come through, though. How do I have it changed on here?

Regards
Ian

Congratulations on being licensed, Ian! To request changing your username to your callsign, go here:

https://ssl.qrz.com/support?op=cschange

There may be some delay until your callsign appears in the database.

[KB3WCC]

Hello everyone,

Just passed my test this afternoon thanks to the Baltimore Amateur Radio Club VE, now just have to be patient for it to show up in the database. However while I wait I need to get my gear right.

I've spent a considerable amount of time researching antennas and would like to hear if anyone has played rough with the Comet CSB-790A dual band. I plan on mounting this on my truck which frequently goes off road, and just wherever. Height is both an issue and not an issue. I want to mount the antenna low so I can tie it down if needed to somewhere near the roofline to accommodate a parking structure or such.

So that lends the question, how well will the 790A hold up to the rigors of off road expeditions, and is it sturdy enough to flex and be tied down without breaking coils.

The alternative as I see it is home brewed 2m and 70cm antennas separately mounted on the truck. Or as the army has taught me, there is always option C...not sure yet what option C is but perhaps someone can toss a suggestion or two my way.

If it matters i'm undecided on what radio I want to match this with, most likely IC-208H, or possibly go with an FT-8800 much of that choice will go against the hardware's durability. As mentioned it gets a bit rough at times up at Rousch Creek in PA..

Thanks in advance for your input