View Full Version : Thoughts on rugged mobile HF
KB3WCC
06-20-2011, 07:20 PM
I'm hoping someone has some suggestions for a really solid HF rig for me. There are so many options I was hoping for some real world experience and suggestion.
I intend this to be permanently installed in an off road vehicle (Hummer) but primarily intended to be used when the vehicle is stationary. I already managed to scavenge an AS-2259 NVIS antenna to drag along with me, as well as looking at various mobile truck mounted antennas.
I'm hunting a decent linear amp as well but thats also proving to be difficult. I want to have the option of firing up the amp without the presence of a generator if the need arises.
Mainly want to use it for MARS and DXing from mountaintops, and for the occasional road trip to wherever.
Thanks for your suggestions in advance
David
KB3WCC/ag
AAR3DU/T
David, I've seen several Hummer owners install/use the Icom 7000. It's a radio that would meet HF/VHF/UHF needs all from one radio. It's probably one of the better mobile rigs out there. If you don't need VHF/UHF then I would suggest something like the Kenwood 480HX/SAT model. The HX model can put out 200w which may remove the need for an amplifier. Their SAT model is 100w but includes built-in tuner.
I agree. The Yaesu FT-857 has a following too, but if you place them side by side, you can easily hear the difference. The only issue with the TS-480 Hx, is the additional frequency coverage. You can mode the 7000 or the 857, but doing so violates some of the MARS rules, depending on which MARS. It is best to ask first!
Just for the record, Icom has sold more IC-706s in it various guises, that any other radio in history!—a tad over 70,000 units!
KB3WCC
06-20-2011, 09:13 PM
I had considered the Yaesu 857 for a moment, primarily brand loyalty drew me that way. I am currently running an FT-7800 for all my 2/70 needs and love it. Also I had not given the Kenwood a good look though, removing the need for an amplifier would be a bonus. Just received the official brochure on the 7000 and noted that it is MIL-STD 810 which although a very general statement may indicate its solid enough to survive.
Hopefully it all remains as proper hobby gear, and isnt needed for what I'm preparing for
VE6TEQ
06-20-2011, 09:18 PM
I've been running the ICOM 7000 in my JEEP Wrangler for about a year now and have had no problems at all. Definitly stands up to the abuse I put the JEEP through when I'm offroad!
W1GUH
06-21-2011, 12:57 PM
FWIW, I've been running an '857 in the mobile for about 4 years & it's proven to be a completely reliable radio. It doesn't get babied. But if I'd gotten the '706 or '7000 I'd probably be saying the same thing. It's hard to find a fussy or delicate mobile radio these days.
And after using the remote mic on my Yaesu, I'd say don't get a radio that doesn't have a remote mic. Those things are super convenient.
Boy do I agree with that! Remote control microphones are far less distracting than using the menus. My Icom one gets far more use than the VFO knob! Once you learn which button is which, you don't even have to look at the face of it.
KE7IHG
07-26-2011, 03:27 AM
I've been using a Kenwood TS-50 with a Heil traveler headset as a portable rig in the semi, pick-up and rv.....It's simple and works pretty well.
Price is right too...I paid 325 for the radio on ebay
M0GVZ
07-26-2011, 01:05 PM
I agree. The Yaesu FT-857 has a following too, but if you place them side by side, you can easily hear the difference. The only issue with the TS-480 Hx, is the additional frequency coverage. You can mode the 7000 or the 857, but doing so violates some of the MARS rules, depending on which MARS. It is best to ask first!
Just for the record, Icom has sold more IC-706s in it various guises, that any other radio in history!—a tad over 70,000 units!
I would say that from first hand experience of the Yaesu FT857, the build quality doesn't exactly inspire confidence in its durability for offroad. For example, the spindles for the selector knob are made of plastic and are a common fail point. Kenwood use metal and I'm sure Icom do too. I would also say the Icoms and the TS480 have far better displays to use when mobile. And as Alan said, the Icom 706 is a proven radio and I think that I'd have that over the 7000 and just add a SSB or CW filter.
