JT4x4

The Mud Pit => Wrenching => Topic started by: smaug1911 on March 29, 2010, 02:57:56 PM

Title: CB experts out there?
Post by: smaug1911 on March 29, 2010, 02:57:56 PM

I got an SWR meter the other day.

All my channels are in the red zone.
I am guessing that means poor groundplane.

Anyone with some experience want to help troubleshoot this with me?

My first idea is to grind down the area where the antenna mount is so it touches bare metal.

Title: Re: CB experts out there?
Post by: calvynandhobbs on March 29, 2010, 03:40:51 PM

My CB has been operating like that for a long time. I just haven't had a chance to troubleshoot what the problem is, but I know I need to get a more easily tuned antenna.

Title: Re: CB experts out there?
Post by: rocket on March 29, 2010, 04:11:38 PM

Did you try tuning the antenna at all?  If you have a Firestick, pull off the top cover; there is a small screw.  you adjust it in/out to tune the antenna.

Since you are running dual whips, it may be difficult; i think you have to tune each individualy, but not sure.  I could never get my system to work w/ co-phased antennas.

Title: Re: CB experts out there?
Post by: smaug1911 on March 29, 2010, 10:48:08 PM

I disconnected one. It was in the red zone by itself.

And from what i have read, constant redzone is not tunable yet. you have to solve whatever problem is causing that first before you can tune it.

Title: Re: CB experts out there?
Post by: WillC on March 29, 2010, 11:58:22 PM

I have been reading up on this as I want to mount a CB and use my handheld as a spare.

You have to ground the CB and the antenna, just grounding the antenna to the tire carrier or the bumper will not be good enough 90% of the time. You have to ground it to the chassie or the negative batterie terminal.