Here's how I did an HF Mobile Install In A Ram 2500! I also show you where I bonded the truck to get a better more efficient ground plane. Most of what is used in this HF Mobile Install is from my last vehicle. This project ended up being easier than I had originally anticipated. The items I installed are the Yaesu FT-891 and the ATAS 120A. I have heard people trash talk the ATAS 120A, but I have been told the key to the ATAS 120A is grounding.
What kind of mount do you have the radio on? Cup holder or? Thanks I have a 1500 looking for the best way to mount the radios. Joe KM4UVY
I used a Lido cup mount from Ham Radio Outlet, and a PVC 4"-3" reducer for drain systems spray painted black.
Everything you done is correct I’m not saying you did anything wrong but bringing some advise from past experience you did wonderful with your install from my personal experience I DID the same type of install with the same ANTENNA mount turned out i had that tail light cracked because of that mount lip over time opening and closing so guys beware of that small lip from that antenna mount this is a big possibility that it might crack your tail light best to bend it out a little bit to avoid any contact with your tail light . that’s all thanks and 73
Nice video!! The ATAS 120A is a decent little antenna. I owned one for many years along with a FT-100D and made many DX contacts while driving using only 100 watts. Grounding is key but weatherproofing of the ATAS 120A is very important. I added a little blob of black Permatex silicone to the slit in the rubber boot where the whip passed through on top of the antenna shaft. My ATAS stayed dry for years but many hams found their ATAS 120A had turned into a rain gauge due to water intrusion. 73, W4BSS
What model Blue Sea Fuse block did you use? Looking at the video and their website, not sure I can tell which one it is. 73, Dan
I hope you have much better success with the ATAS 120A antenna than I did with a Yaesu FT-857D.It by far is the WORST HF mobile antenna I have ever used or owned.Hamsticks,Hustler,DK2 Screwdriver & the TARHEEL II all blew it away on transmit & receive & none of them ever started re-tuning in the middle of a QSO.All of those antennas were used on the same mount on the same mounting location.You could never give me another one even for FREE if I'm required to keep & use it or the 857D.I have considered the 891A as my next HF/6 meter mobile since ICOM thinks every radio should have a Touch Screen but I would purchase another TARHEEL II if I go that route. Clayton W4KVW
I forgot to mention that the ATAS 120-A stayed Full of water every time it rained & it rains a lot here in Florida. Clayton W4KVW
Excellent advice! I did check and I do have a space in between the light and mount. I just hope it is far enough if some one gets over zealous closing the tailgate.
Mine would stay Off very often if that were the case here.I prefer one I can leave installed. {:>) Clayton W4KVW
Lol well let Just hope for the best ... I was so pissed off when mine cracked my tail light it was not a cheap fix and nowadays tail lights are expensive to replace Thanks for taking notes nice install tutorial I love it