Community Forums

ironpro · 04-13-2005, 09:29 AM

i would like to install cb radio and want to put anntena on back ladder and run cable to front. can this work and if so where can i get cable at to do this

ironpro · 04-13-2005, 09:29 AM

i would like to install cb radio and want to put anntena on back ladder and run cable to front. can this work and if so where can i get cable at to do this

Digital Boy · 04-13-2005, 10:30 AM

I think that if attaching an antenna to the ladder worked well, we'd see more of it. I for one have never seen it.

A groundplane antenna needs a certain minimum metal surface area to work properly. The ladder may not offer enough area.

On my previous gas rig I bought a high quality non-groundplane antenna. We mounted it at the front belowthe roof line on the side panel. The coaxial type cable comes cut to a specific length and you mustn't shorten it. We ran the excess cable behind the cabinets mounted to the inside of the front cap.

My reception was outstanding and my caravan companions reported that they heard me well at a couple of miles distance.

Jerry Wessel KA8MBK · 04-15-2005, 07:13 AM

I would not mount the antenna on the ladder because the length would result in too much loss. You are working with low power and distance will hurt you. Use a good non-groundplane antenna and you will do well with it up front. I used to run my amateur radio antennas on the ladder but I had more power. Now I just put them up front.

Eddielee · 04-15-2005, 11:54 AM

Yea it can be done. Make sure the braid portion of the coax cable is grounded to the ladder. Effective? Depends on what your roof is made of - metal and the signal does one of two things, is forced up - limiting your distance or two, directs your signal just to the front of the vehicle. If rubber or fiberglass, it might stay somewhat omni-directional. I believe that Radio Shack still sells RG-58 or RG-8 coax in lengths.
The actual length necessary is moot. unless you are trying to get down into the 1.1:1 SWR on a specific frequency. I'v set up many CB antennas on vehicle ladders, but only for a very specific reason - it's not the best place!

Lee · 04-19-2005, 12:53 PM

I have seen some mounted on the ladder, but be careful of the distance off the ground. After about 13.5 ft you run the risk of hitting everything from overhanging tree limbs to bridges.
Radio shack has RG58U in any length, so that will get you back there. Just trim the antenna for SWR and your ready to go.

Lee