CB radio suggestions

[peter84]

Looking to equip my TJ with a CB for future Wheeling trips, nothing expensive just something to keep in contact with the group. Is the Uniden PRO 510XL from Qudratec suitable? Your input would be appreciated.

[N3IW]

I just got a cheap one at Radio Shack, then went to an even cheaper old one that I picked up used.  Club usually uses Ch. 34, so you need a 40 channel rig, not the really old 19 channel ones.

Antenna choice and mounting location is probably more important than the actual choice of CB.  Have not noticed any problem on rides by not having something other than a cheap CB.

[CJ8Ted]

I went the low buck way and ended up replacing every thing with higher quality items. First it was the cable then the antana than the radio. I like my Uniden PC68LTW it is a full size unit with weather channel and a good cable running to a 4 foot flexable antana, that takes a beating from low hanging tree limbs. Had to replace the mic after a few years but that was not too expensive. I would recommend "Peppers Electronics" on Rt 30 between York and Abbotstown. In a TJ size is a little more of an issue and you may choose a smaller radio and it will work fine. Dont forget to tune it by setting the SWR after you hook it up and mount it. Peppers can or someone from the club can bring a meter to a meeting.

Ted

[N3IW]

If you are looking for a really neat console for the CJ/YJ/TJ, check out my thread on DoubleD Fabrications Radio Console.

I also have an antenna analyzer (not just an SWR meter) that I can certainly bring to club meetings/rides to help with antenna tuning/issues.  At the risk of taking on too much, I can provide a certain amount of expertise with electronics and RF as my employer thinks that's what I do (on non-commercial products).  I'd be happy to help out anyone in the club if I can.

As Ted said, the antenna and radio will take a beating.  Don't need to ruggedize as much as I do for my day job, but there are lots of little things that can be done to enhance the whole set-up.

[peter84]

Appreciate the suggestions. Do you know of any CB suppliers nearer Lancaster?

[ddechri]

The Uniden 510 is a good, simple unit that will mount in tight places. They usually run around $40. Mine has held up for 15 years of on and off-road abuse. You could get them at Wal-mart and some of the auto-parts stores like AZ, Advanced or Pep Boys. I even found one at a yard sale for $1 that works great. I think my brother bought a few off ebay.

As far as antennas, Radio Shack and truck stops are good sources. If you are in Lancaster, there used to be a big rig shop off Rt 72 that sold Mack or Peterbuilt stuff. I'm sure they would have antennas and wires. I'm paritial to the 48" 1/4" dia. flexible fiberglass antennas on a solid base. There are 1/2" round hard fiberglass that get spring mounted, but they seem to swing and wack into your top and other things fairly easily. There is another truck stop up off Rt 222 that has similar stuff. I'm on my second antenna and I got it there.

- Dave

[peter84]

Thanks for your replies. Dave helped me today do the SWR, so I am all set.