SWR help

[ScotM]

This is where I am running a ground wire to the chassis from the rear. It is run underneath the rear tailgate rubber seal. You can use any bolt underneath to terminate the ground wire.

Nice, that’s a much shorter route. I’m currently working on making sure I have continuity between everything. My antenna mounting plate was anodized, so I’ve sanded that down , the I’ll attach the grounding strap to the plate, then run it to that closer ground. I appreciate the help.

Sponsored

 

[ScotM]

Experiment with positioning the antenna to create an optimal ground plane. What did the steel plate setup look like?

At 1.76:1 you're transmitting about 92% of your radio power. So not bad, and the reflected power is low enough it won't hurt the radio.

Here’s the steel plate, 22”x 18” or so. Just not outside right now.

 

[THAW]

Here’s the steel plate, 22”x 18” or so. Just not outside right now.

You had the antenna magnetically mounted in the center of that plate and it didn't affect SWR?

 

[ScotM]

You had the antenna magnetically mounted in the center of that plate and it didn't affect SWR?

Yes, the mag mount was right in the center, I I got the same result on the concrete driveway. I double checked my meter connections to make sure everything was correct. It’s a new meter as well.

 

[ScotM]

You had the antenna magnetically mounted in the center of that plate and it didn't affect SWR?

@Terrymo @THAW @Nokones

trimmed antenna slightly. Now will work on the grounding and cable, and see where I’m at. 1.01 on channel 2, 1.15 on 18.

 

[Terrymo]

@Terrymo @THAW @Nokones

trimmed antenna slightly. Now will work on the grounding and cable, and see where I’m at. 1.01 on channel 2, 1.15 on 18.

That’s great!
Evidently I gave bad info on that antenna not being tunable.

 

[THAW]

Looking good.

It wouldn't hurt to elevate the plate above the concrete for your tests.

 

[ScotM]

One more thing for you guys. I decided to keep the ground on one end inside, the jeep. unfortunately my braided strap came up about 2 ft short of the passenger ground. So I found another good ground on a torx head bolt at the seat belt mount. There is continuity between the passenger ground and that bolt, so I know it’s good. I don’t think there’s an issue undoing that bolt and attaching my ground from a safety perspective. Just weighing whether to re run a longer ground or just using the belt anchor bolt. Picture of bolt for your viewing pleasure.

 

[Nokones]

One more thing for you guys. I decided to keep the ground on one end inside, the jeep. unfortunately my braided strap came up about 2 ft short of the passenger ground. So I found another good ground on a torx head bolt at the seat belt mount. There is continuity between the passenger ground and that bolt, so I know it’s good. I don’t think there’s an issue undoing that bolt and attaching my ground from a safety perspective. Just weighing whether to re run a longer ground or just using the belt anchor bolt. Picture of bolt for your viewing pleasure.

Seat and Seat belt anchor points are excellent point for a chassis ground

 

[ScotM]

Seat and Seat belt anchor points are excellent point for a chassis ground

Excellent, thanks so much for your expertise today. I should wrap this up tomorrow.

 

[ScotM]

Completed install and grounding - 1.01 on Channel 2 and channel 18

 

[THAW]

Nice. What does the antenna install look like?

 

[ScotM]

Nice. What does the antenna install look like?

Like this . Had to angle it to fit in the garage

 

[Pape]

Like this . Had to angle it to fit in the garage

Look to be a nmo mount, maybe look to get one youcan screw instead than magnetic

 

[ScotM]

Look to be a nmo mount, maybe look to get one youcan screw instead than magnetic

It’s both magnetic and the antenna screws in. I’m old , forgetful and a bit lazy.

Sponsored